'We know he's a fighter' - Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer issue encouraging message to 'seriously ill' Alan Hansen as emotional Graeme Souness pays tribute to ex-Liverpool hero

The football world has been deeply moved by the news that Hansen, a Liverpool legend and celebrated BBC pundit, is seriously ill in hospital. As tributes and messages of support pour in, prominent figures such as Lineker, Shearer, and Souness have shared their heartfelt words during the BBC's coverage of Euro 2024.

Lineker and Shearer began their Euro 2024 coverage with touching tributes to their former colleague. Hansen, who recently turned 69, was confirmed to be seriously ill, prompting an outpouring of support from his peers.

"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?" Lineker began, setting the tone for a heartfelt segment.

Shearer responded with deep emotion: "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."

Lineker continued by sending love and support to Hansen's family, using a golf analogy to describe Hansen's resilience: "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."

Souness, Hansen's former teammate at Liverpool, also paid an emotional tribute ahead of Scotland's opening match at Euro 2024. Struggling to contain his emotions, Souness praised Hansen's exceptional skills and character.

"I had the pleasure of playing with him, he was an absolute dream for a midfielder," Souness said. "He passed the ball at the right weight at the right angle at the right time. Just a super footballer. I believe he was the best footballing centre-half ever."

Souness's admiration for Hansen extended beyond his footballing abilities. He described Hansen as a quality performer and an outstanding human being: "You’d have to search a long, long way to find anyone who’s got a bad word to say about him and that takes some doing. His chat and banter were top-class, and he was a pleasure to be around. He’s in the fight of his life right now and we should all say a little prayer to him."

Hansen's illustrious career is a testament to his skill and dedication. Making over 600 appearances for Liverpool, Hansen helped the team secure eight league titles, three European Cups, and several domestic trophies. His calm and composed style of play, combined with his exceptional reading of the game, earned him a place among the best defenders in football history.

After retiring from playing, Hansen transitioned into a successful career in punditry, becoming a regular analyst on Match of the Day. His insightful commentary and sharp analysis made him a respected voice in football broadcasting. Hansen retired from punditry in May 2014, choosing to spend more time with his family after a long and successful career.