Ian Rush admits he feared for his life, saying “I thought this might be the end” following a health scare.

This week, Liverpool have been reminded that football comes second to life itself, as one of the club’s greatest figures shared a harrowing personal experience.
Ian Rush, the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, revealed he feared for his life after collapsing at home earlier this month, speaking openly about the ordeal with BBC Sport.

The 64-year-old was admitted to the Countess of Chester Hospital on 11 December and spent 48 hours in intensive care after contracting what was described as a ‘superflu’.

“I genuinely thought the worst and feared this might be it,” the former No. 9 admitted. “I couldn’t breathe.”
Rush explained that his breathing worsened overnight, prompting his partner Carol to call an ambulance in the early hours.

Although his condition initially improved, he collapsed again shortly after the paramedics left, requiring another emergency call and hospital admission.
“It was a terrifying experience,” he said. “I thought it was the end because I couldn’t breathe and went into a panic attack.”

After five days in hospital, Rush was finally discharged, but not before mentally preparing for the worst.
“This has given me a wake-up call,” he added. “There are a few things I need to sort to make sure everything is in place for my loved ones if anything happens to me.”

These reflections come during an already difficult time for Rush, following the loss of his brother Gerald and, shortly after, the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. He had previously explained why he could not attend Jota’s funeral, describing the Portuguese forward as “probably the best natural finisher at the club” and “a real gent” who always gave his all.

The combination of grief and his recent health scare has made Rush’s public appearances especially meaningful. Throughout it all, he confirmed that Liverpool have been fully supportive, telling him to “take as much time off as I need.”

“That’s when you know it’s a big family club,” he said.
Since leaving hospital, Rush has received an outpouring of messages from across the football world, reflecting the respect he commands beyond Anfield. He recently attended the World Sports Summit in Dubai and serves on the jury for the Globe Soccer Awards, where a Special Award In Memoriam was presented for Jota.

Looking back on his career, Rush expressed pride in his achievements, particularly his enduring legacy at Liverpool. With 346 goals, he remains ahead of Roger Hunt and Mo Salah, cementing his place in the club’s history.

“It gives me the energy to keep going,” he said, adding that being Liverpool’s record goalscorer “makes me feel proud.”
His words serve as a reminder that while trophies and results are important, it’s the people who define this club that truly matter.