Alan Hansen pictured for first time since Liverpool hero's recovery from serious illness
The Liverpool and Scotland legend who became one of the BBC's most beloved pundits during a 22-year TV career enjoyed a round of golf near his home on Merseyside as he was pictured for the first time since being released from hospital
Alan Hansen looks happy and relaxed as he is seen for the first time since his recovery from serious illness.
The 69-year-old Liverpool legend was enjoying a game of golf near his home in Southport on Merseyside. Dressed in a NetJets golf cap, blue fleece and green trousers, he gave a broad grin as he lifted his bag over his shoulder and set off down the fairway.
"He looked great, and was clearly enjoying himself," said an onlooker. "He was full of smiles."
The fans' favourite, who won 23 major honours during a glittering career at Anfield, was rushed into hospital in early June. The Reds released a statement to confirm that he was suffering from a serious illness, without giving details. Fans from around the world sent their best wishes to the former Match of the Day presenter, his wife Janet, and their two children, Adam and Lucy.
His former team mate Graeme Souness, 71, spoke to him in hospital and was reassured because he sounded 'fabulous'. He said: "He’s been in a difficult place but the way he sounded, he’s back, and I hope I'm right.”
Former MOTD co-host Gary Lineker told BBC viewers watching the Euros: "To use an analogy of Alan's favourite pastime, golf, he 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."
He was released on June 24 to recover at home, and Liverpool FC told fans: "Alan, Janet, Adam, Lucy and family would like to thank everybody for their wonderful messages of love and support. It has been overwhelming and has helped enormously. We also hugely appreciate the ongoing respect that has been shown for our privacy as Alan continues his recovery. Thank you."
Hansen, who played in the 1982 World Cup for Scotland, is thought to have been fighting for his life when he was first admitted.
He began his footballing career with Sauchie before playing for Partick Thistle then joined Liverpool in 1977 and made 614 appearances, before retiring in 1991.
A year later, he started working for the BBC as a pundit, and covered 16 FA Cup finals, six World Cups, five European Championships and an Olympics. He decided to retire in 2014 due to 'crippling' nerves.
"After 22 years I kept telling myself I wouldn't get so nervous, but it got worse," he said. "I was getting more nervous and I'd say: 'What are you doing? ' The BBC were terrific, I loved the people and Match of the Day but I didn't enjoy the nerves."
"When I played I didn't like pundits. When I was a pundit I didn't like the other pundits because I was scared they might be better than me. Honestly, I thought they were all better than me. It was my insecurity."
'Jockey', as he was known by teammates, is in the top 10 for all-time appearances for Liverpool having played 620 matches, enjoying a 17-year career at the top of the game.
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