Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer both had some very touching words for Liverpool icon Alan Hansen as they began the BBC's coverage of Euro 2024.
Hansen was confirmed to be 'seriously ill' in hospital shortly after his 69th birthday and the Beeb flagship pair, who worked with Hansen on Match of the Day, had nothing but kind words and messages of support for the Scot and his family.
Lineker began: "It's been a tough week for everyone associated with Match of the Day with the news that Alan Hansen is seriously ill in hospital shocked us all, didn't it Alan?"
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Shearer then replied: "Oh absolutely, I mean we are great friends with Al, we know his character, we know he's a fighter, we know how tough he is. So we are thinking of you big man and we are with you, we are hoping and praying."
Host Lineker added: "We certainly are. Everyone at Match of the Day sends love and thoughts to Janet, Lucy, Adam and the grandchildren. To use an analogy of 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 have never known a more competitive person in my life. We are all with you big Al."
Liverpool confirmed the news earlier this week that Hansen, who won three European Cups, eight league titles, two FA Cups and three League Cups in 620 appearances for the Anfield club, was battling illness in hospital.
“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 statement read. “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 retired from football punditry in May 2014 after many successful years working alongside Lineker and Shearer, in order to spend more time with his family.
