Liverpool sends message to Alan Hansen as Reds legend seriously ill in hospital on 69th birthday

Liverpool has sent a birthday message to club legend Alan Hansen as the Scot remains seriously ill in hospital. The Reds released a statement on behalf of Hansen's family over the weekend after he had been admitted to hospital. Hansen won eight league titles and three European Cups during his time at Anfield.

He turned 69 on Thursday and Liverpool posted a short message on social media. It read: "We are all thinking of Alan and his family on his 69th birthday."

Tributes poured in from across sport and football after the initial statement including from former teammates and TV colleagues, including Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker.

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It read: "The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC are with our legendary former captain Alan Hansen, who is currently seriously ill in hospital.

"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."

Hansen, who made over 600 appearances for Liverpool, retired in 1991 and later became a pundit for BBC's football coverage. He worked for the channel for 22 years and covered major tournaments before stepping down after the 2014 World Cup.

Former colleague Lineker posted on social media: "Horrendous news. Thoughts are with Alan, Janet and all the family" while the likes of Jamie Carragher also sent their messages of support.