Liverpool icon and legendary BBC football pundit Alan Hansen has been spotted for the first time since coming out of hospital after a serious illness.
Hansen was thought to have been fighting for his life when he was rushed into hospital this summer – but he was then released on June 23 to recover at home.
Liverpool confirmed in a statement that the 69-year-old Scotsman was suffering from a ‘serious illness’ but didn’t share specific details about his health struggles.
Hansen has now been seen for the first time since that hospital stint with the ex-defender enjoying a game of golf near his home in Southport on Merseyside.
Affectionally known by the nickname ‘Jocky’, Hansen was pictured with a huge smile and the Liverpool hero was looking ‘great’ and ‘clearly enjoying himself’.
That’s according to the Daily Mirror, who have secured images of Hansen grinning while lifting his golf bag over his shoulder and setting off down the fairway.
Hansen, adored by many for his long spell working on Match of the Day, is seen wearing a blue fleece with green trousers and a NetJets golf cap in the pictures.
Hansen has received a number of touching tributes since news of his health problems came to light.
‘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,’ Gary Lineker said.
‘I’ve never known a more competitive person in my life. We’re all with you big Al.’
Graeme Souness, meanwhile, added: ‘He’s been in a difficult place but the way he sounded, he’s back, and I hope I’m right.’
Hansen helped Liverpool win eight league titles, three European Cups, two FA Cups and three League Cups in a 14-year spell from 1977 to 1991.
He also earned a total of 26 international caps for Scotland between 1979 and 1987.