Coronavirus: Sir Kenny Dalglish praises NHS staff after being discharged from hospital

Sir Kenny Dalglish has praised the efforts of NHS workers across the nation after being released from hospital following a positive coronavirus diagnosis.

The 69-year-old was admitted to hospital on Wednesday for treatment on gallstones.

Despite not showing any symptoms, Sir Kenny underwent a routine coronavirus test and ultimately returned a positive diagnosis for COVID-19.

The former Celtic, Liverpool and Scotland forward is now recovering in self-isolation at home.

Writing in The Sunday Post, Sir Kenny hailed the hospital workers who treated him as "absolutely brilliant".

"People may think my name got me the best of care but every patient in the NHS gets the best of care," he wrote.

Dalglish hailed the efforts of NHS staff (Getty)

"As a nation, we are lucky to have them and I wish them all well as they work tirelessly to help the country through this pandemic."

Dalglish later issued a statement via the Liverpool website, which read: "Thank you for all of your well wishes over the last few days.

"‪I’m delighted to be back home with the family after receiving brilliant care from the NHS, which we appreciate now more than ever. Marina and I would like to express our immense gratitude to the medical staff who cared for me and who continue to treat countless others throughout the country during an incredibly challenging period.

Dalglish returned for a second spell as Liverpool manager in 2011, and led them to the Carling Cup in 2012 (Paul Gilham)

"‪I know the sun is shining for many of you, but I urge you to stay home and follow the government guidelines to the letter. This is undoubtedly the best way that we can look after one another at this time.

"We will now be in full lockdown for the recommended amount of time in order to protect the lives of others."

Dalglish's admission to hospital on Friday led to well wishes from former Reds stars Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher, as well as the club's current captain Jordan Henderson.

Dalglish's son, the former footballer Paul Dalglish, and daughter Kelly Cates, the Sky Sports presenter, thanked those who sent messages to their father.

Dalglish's children, including daughter Kelly Cates, thanked fans for their well-wishes (PA)

"It’s not my place to comment on my old man, he can do that for himself in due course," wrote Paul on Twitter.

"Truly humbling messages from supporters of all teams. I’m sure we can all agree this is more important than football & that we are all united as blues to support the NHS. Stay safe everyone."

Kelly added: "Thank you so much for your lovely messages and I’m really sorry I can’t reply to them all."