Club pays tribute as icon returns from illness to lead historic celebration
In a moment rich with sentiment and symbolism, Liverpool Football Club has confirmed that legendary captain Alan Hansen will present the Premier League trophy to Virgil van Dijk this Sunday at Anfield, following the Reds’ season finale against Crystal Palace.
At 69, Hansen makes his first public return to the stadium after recovering from a serious illness that hospitalised him in June last year. The former centre-back, who famously amassed 620 appearances, three European Cups, and eight league titles, will take centre stage as Liverpool caps off a majestic title-winning campaign.
This act is more than ceremonial—it’s a heartfelt nod to a man who once defined defensive excellence at Anfield. The presence of Mark and Jo McVeigh of the Owen McVeigh Foundation alongside Hansen deepens the occasion’s emotional weight. The charity, born from personal tragedy, now supports countless families battling leukaemia through its work with Alder Hey Hospital.
Van Dijk, who recently extended his stay with a new two-year contract, is expected to share a special moment with Hansen, whose leadership echoes in the heart of every Liverpool captain who followed him.
This tribute underscores the unity of Liverpool’s past, present, and future—a club where legends live forever and history walks hand in hand wi
th glory.
