Gary Lineker leads well-wishes to Alan Hansen after it was announced the former Liverpool defender is seriously ill in hospital

A number of ex-footballers, including Gary Lineker, have sent their well wishes to Alan Hansen after it emerged he is seriously ill in hospital.

Liverpool announced the news via their social media channels on Sunday afternoon, sending their best wishes to the former defender and his family.

They confirmed that they are in direct contact with the Hansen family and asked for his privacy to be respected.

Gary Lineker has also sent his well wishes to Hansen, with whom he worked for more than a decade on Match of The Day

The former England striker wrote on X: ‘Horrible news. Thoughts are with Alan, Janet and all the family.

Former Crystal Palace striker Mark Bright wrote: ‘Wishing LFC legend Alan Hansen a speedy recovery, love and thoughts with Janet, Lucy and Adam.’

Everton FC, meanwhile, posted: ‘Get well soon, Alan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.”