LIVERPOOL REMAIN keen to offer their vacant manager’s position to Fulham’s Roy Hodgson despite Kenny Dalglish’s interest in returning to the post after a 19-year absence.
The Liverpool legend, who quit as manager in 1991 following a trophy-laden career at Anfield, has let it be known he is willing to succeed Rafael Benitez if the board deems him the best available candidate.
However, despite Dalglish’s desire for the job and his popularity, the Liverpool board’s preference is for a manager in the game and with recent European experience, and Fulham’s Hodgson remains their leading choice. The 62-year-old has been under consideration since Benitez’ departure last week and although no official approach has been made to Fulham for their manager, who is on holiday, Liverpool are interested.
Dalglish is currently charged with leading the search for Benitez’ replacement as manager alongside Christian Purslow, Liverpool’s managing director. Despite his present role and 10-year absence from management, the 59-year-old believes he is equipped to make a remarkable return as Liverpool manager and lift the club following the varied disappointments of last season.
The Scot would be a popular choice for many Liverpool supporters and his credentials will be considered by the Anfield board as they consider the best man to take the club forward. Liverpool do not have Champions League football or a substantial transfer budget to entice their next manager, and are also anxious to make an appointment that convinces Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano to remain at Anfield beyond this summer.
Yet with over a month until their players begin to report back for pre-season training, the Merseyside club have made it clear they are under no pressure to rush the appointment but are confident of securing their main target.
Dalglish could yet return to manage Liverpool in the event of Hodgson, who has a €3 million release clause in his 12-month rolling contract at Craven Cottage, declining the job or the club failing to secure an alternative choice.
The former Liverpool manager, now employed as a club ambassador, is unlikely to place further pressure on the Anfield board by publicly declaring his interest and therefore risking a schism with Purslow and other directors.
