Match Of The Day star Gary Lineker has shared a heartfelt message for the legendary pundit and football player Alan Hansen after he was rushed to hospital.

The 69-year-old was said to be "seriously ill" in a statement released by Liverpool Football Club.

The team said: "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 defender of the utmost elegance, Hansen’s outstanding raft of honours across a 14-year spell with the Reds – he joined from Partick Thistle in 1977 – included eight league titles, three European Cups, two FA Cups and three League Cups.

"‘Jocky’, as he was known by teammates, is in the top 10 for all-time appearances for the club having played 620 matches, and the Scottish centre-back also served as Liverpool skipper for four seasons.

"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."

Gary Lineker and more share heartfelt messages as Alan Hansen rushed to hospital

Alan Hansen played for both Liverpool and Scotland, lifting 23 trophies during his time with the Scouse team.

Discussing the recent news about his former Match Of The Day colleague, Gary Lineker described it as "horrendous".

He said: "Horrendous news. Thoughts are with Alan, Janet and all the family."

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher also reacted to the statement, sending a fingers crossed and a heart emoji.

Hansen's former teammate John Aldridge said: "All our thoughts has ex lfc players are with Alan (Jockey) Hansen and his family. Let’s hope he can pull through his illness."

John Terry, Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson each sent heart emojis in response to the message from the club.