Former Scotland and Liverpool defender Alan Hansen is 'seriously ill in hospital', it has been confirmed.

Liverpool state that they are in contact with Hansen's family and that their best wishes are with their former player and his loved ones.

A statement from the Premier League side reads: "The thoughts and support of everyone at Liverpool FC are with our legendary former captain Alan Hansen, who is currently seriously ill in hospital.

"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."

Hansen started out his professional career at Partick Thistle before earning a life-changing move to Anfield in 1977.

It was here that he featured heavily in the highly successful Liverpool team of the late 1970s and 80s, before calling time on his career in 1991 after well over 600 appearances for the Reds.

Hansen lifted eight First Division titles, three European Cups and two FA Cups during a glittering 14-year stint at Liverpool. He also spent four years as captain of the global Premier League giants.

He won 26 caps for Scotland over an eight-year period too.

After his playing days, Hansen became renowned among households up and down the country for his work as a pundit. 

He co-hosted BBC's Match of the Day between 1992 and 2014, when he stepped down from his role to enjoy retirement.

More to follow.