Major Alan Hansen health update as former Match of the Day pundit released from hospital

Liverpool legend Alan Hansen is reportedly recovering well after being hospitalized earlier this month.

The former Liverpool captain, who celebrated his 69th birthday on June 13, was previously admitted to hospital after falling seriously ill earlier this month.

Ex-teammate Graeme Souness recently shared a positive update regarding Hansen's recovery last week, mentioning he had a chat over the phone with Hansen and felt elated to hear that he "sounded fabulous" and was "definitely on the way back".

Taking to social media platform X on Sunday afternoon, Anfield legend Sephton claimed that Hansen had in fact left hospital, posting: "Just been told by a reliable source that Alan Hansen has been released from Hospital!"

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The club later confirmed: "Alan has been discharged from hospital today to continue his recovery at home.

"Alan, Janet, Adam, Lucy and family would like to thank everybody for their wonderful messages of love and support. It has been overwhelming and has helped enormously."

Souness, speaking on talkSPORT, expressed his hope for Hansen's complete recuperation: "I spoke to him yesterday (June 16) and he sounded fabulous so I hope that's him on the way to a full recovery," adding with a touch of humour about their enduring friendship, "He's definitely back because he did nothing but take the mick out of me, so he's definitely on the way back!"

Souness also recounted his communication with Hansen's family and his light-hearted reluctance to answer 'Big Al's' call: "I've been speaking to his son (Adam) and Janet his wife and I've been phoning his phone, his phone number. I got on the train on Sunday and I was looking for my seat and my phone rang and I could see it was Big Al. I was thinking 'Oh no, don't answer that'.

"So I sat down and got the courage to phone back and HE answered the phoned. He's been in a difficult place but the way he sounded yesterday, he's back, and I hope I'm right."

Liverpool confirmed Hansen's hospitalisation on June 9, stating: "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."

Hansen is celebrated as one of Anfield's greatest defenders, having won eight league titles, two FA Cups and three European Cups during his illustrious 14-year career with the Reds.