Liverpool legend Ian Rush was rushed to hospital and spent nearly 48 hours in intensive care, suspected of falling victim to the 'superflu' outbreak.
The football icon was admitted to the Countess of Chester hospital last week after experiencing breathing difficulties at his home. Rush is reportedly on the mend but continues to stay at the hospital following a few distressing days.
At 64, Rush is one of the greatest British strikers ever and holds the record for the most goals scored for Liverpool. He also serves as an ambassador for the club. Friends raised the alarm when he started feeling unwell at home. Within minutes, he was whisked off to the hospital and immediately placed in ICU for urgent care.
MONACO, MONACO - AUGUST 29: Liverpool legend Ian Rush poses for photos in the red carpet during the Kick-Off 2019/2020 - UEFA Champions League Draw on August 29, 2019 in Monaco, Monaco. (Photo by Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Rush is suspected of falling victim to the 'superflu' outbreak
Rush has responded positively to treatment and is said to be 'in good spirits'. He is expected to be back home in time for Christmas, reports MailOnline.
The flu epidemic has swept across the nation, leading to critical incidents being declared at hospitals throughout Britain. Some schools have shut their doors, and the reintroduction of face mask mandates is being considered.
Health officials are warning that this winter could see the UK grappling with its worst flu season ever, while cases are also surging across Europe.
Ian Rush, ex Liverpool player and Ledley King, Ex Tottenham Hotspur bring out the trophy prior the UEFA Champions League Final between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool at Estadio Wanda Metropolitano on June 01, 2019 in Madrid, Spain.
Rush has responded positively to treatment and is said to be 'in good spirits' (Image: Getty Images)
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust has declared a critical incident at four of its hospitals due to the 'exceptional' number of flu patients.
In other news, the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust has declared a 'critical incident', while Royal Stoke Hospital and Stafford County Hospital are facing 'extremely high demand'. Patients are being urged to use A&E services only for life-threatening conditions.
Ian Rush, who netted 346 goals across all competitions, holds the record for the highest number of goals in FA Cup history.
A pivotal figure in Liverpool's dominance during the 1980s, Rush enjoyed two successful stints at the club, with a move to Italian heavyweights Juventus in between.
Earning 73 caps for Wales, he was the country's top scorer with 28 goals until Gareth Bale surpassed his record in 2018.