Liverpool sends support to Alan Hansen as former defender 'seriously ill in hospital' 

GET WELL SOON: Liverpool Football Club have issued a statement in support of Alan Hansen, who is seriously ill in hospital.Photo credit should read: PA Wire.

Liverpool Football Club have issued a statement in support of Alan Hansen, who is seriously ill in hospital.

The legendary centre-back won eight league titles and three European Cups during his time with the Reds and he also enjoyed a successful career in punditry after retiring from football.

A statement from the club reads: "The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC are with our legendary former captain Alan Hansen, who is currently seriously ill in hospital.

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

A new mural of Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson lifting the Premier League trophy and former captain Alan Hansen lifting the league trophy by artist Paul Curtis on the gable end of a house on Old Barn Road in Anfield, Liverpool. Photo credit: Peter Byrne/PA Wire

"‘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."