Liverpool fans rejoice at Alan Hansen 'looking so well' after health scare

A happy and healthy Alan Hansen grabbed the headlines on Sunday as Liverpool were presented with the Premier League trophy at Anfield.

The legendary Reds defender, who won eight top-flight titles on Merseyside,  was hospitalised for two weeks in June as he was seriously ill, before being discharged to continue his recovery at home.

There was an outpouring of love in the summer when people heard about his ill health and plenty of relief when he was discharged.

Almost a year on, the 69-year-old had the honour of handing Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk the Premier League trophy and remained on the pitch as the Reds celebrated their record-equalling crown.

Liverpool fans reacted to the sight of the jubilant Hansen alongside Van Dijk with joy, with many expressing their delight at his improved condition.

'Great to see Alan Hansen looking so happy. Easily the best defender of my lifetime,' one user on X wrote. Another said: 'Brilliant to see Alan Hansen looking so well - true club legend.'

A third wrote: 'Amazing to see the legend that is Alan Hansen presenting the trophy especially after his illness and what a humble way for another future legend in [Van Dijk] to lift it together in front of the Kop. YNWA.'

'That’s great to see Alan Hansen looking so well,' said another Reds supporter, while a particularly relieved fan remarked: 'Got to say it’s good to see Alan Hansen looking so well.'

In addition to eight top-flight titles, Hansen also won three European Cups, two FA Cups and three League Cups in 620 appearances for the Reds across a glittering stint from 1977 to 1991.

Last June Hansen was hospitalised as he was 'seriously' ill and he remained there for two weeks before being discharged to continue his recovery at home. In March he accepted his MBE from Prince William.

The Scot received an outpouring of love when people heard of his situation last summer.

Gary Lineker was among those who reacted with delight to hearing he had been discharged, describing it as 'the best news ever'.

After his playing career, Hansen made a smooth transition to punditry.

He rejected the offer of going into management before pursuing a career in broadcasting, where he would take up positions with Sky and BBC Radio 5 Live.

He subsequently joined up with BBC Match of the Day as a co-host in 1992 before leaving the show in 2014 having covered 16 FA Cup finals, six World Cups, five European Championships and one Olympic Games with the BBC.

During this time, Hansen became known for his sharp analytical mind and his criticism of defenders, having played the position himself.

He stepped away from punditry after the 2014 World Cup, but has remained involved in the game by regularly attending matches at Anfield in recent years to watch his beloved Liverpool.

In October, the 69-year-old made an emotional return to Partick Thistle where he launched his illustrious career.

In March, Hansen was formerly made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for services to football and broadcasting at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle.