Alan Hansen ‘on the mend’ as Graeme Souness offers heartening health update

“I’ve been speaking to his son and Janet his wife and I’ve been phoning his phone, his phone number,” Souness explained. “I got on the train on Sunday and I was looking for my seat and my phone rang and I could see it was Big Al.

“I was thinking ‘Oh no, don’t answer that’. So I sat down and got the courage to phone back and HE answered the phone. He’s been in a difficult place but the way he sounded yesterday, he’s back, and I hope I’m right.”

The positive update follows tributes to Hansen during the BBC‘s coverage of Euro 2024 over the opening weekend of the tournament. Gary Lineker, who has been on hosting duties for the tournament, worked regularly with Hansen on Match of the Day before the Scot ended his BBC stint after the 2014 World Cup.

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“The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC are with our legendary former captain Alan Hansen, who is currently seriously ill in hospital,” Liverpool said in a statement when the ex-defender was hospitalised.

“A defender of the utmost elegance, Hansen’s outstanding raft of honours across a 14-year spell with the Reds – he joined from Partick Thistle in 1977 – included eight league titles, three European Cups, two FA Cups and three League Cups.

“‘Jocky’, as he was known by teammates, is in the top 10 for all-time appearances for the club having played 620 matches, and the Scottish centre-back also served as Liverpool skipper for four seasons.

“The club is currently in contact with Alan’s family to provide our support at this difficult time, and our thoughts, wishes and hopes are with Alan and all of the Hansen family.

“We will provide any further updates as we receive them in due course, and we request that the Hansen family’s privacy is respected at this time.”

Speaking on Saturday during the BBC coverage of Italy v Albania, Lineker said: “It’s been a tough week for everyone associated with Match of the Day. The news that Alan Hansen was seriously ill in hospital shocked us all.

“We’re thinking of you big man, we’re with you and we’re hoping and we’re praying for you. We certainly are. Everyone at Match of the Day sends love and thoughts to Janet, Lucy and Adam and the grandchildren.

“To use an analogy from Alan’s favourite pastime golf… You might be three down with four to play, but if anyone can come back from it, it’s Alan. I’ve never known a more competitive person in my life. We’re all with you big Al.”

Fans have shared their joy after hearing the positive update from Souness. “Had feared the worst, so it really would be a lift for everyone if he’s right,” wrote one on social media.

“Brilliant news. So pleased for him and his family. Well done Al,” wrote another. A third described it as “Fantastic news”.

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