New Inter Milan boss Rafael Benitez has insisted that Liverpool should look no further than club legend Kenny Dalglish to replace him as the next Anfield manager. The Spaniard has the highest regard for the former Liverpool player and coach and claims that with the club in turmoil, Dalglish is the only one equipped with the knowledge and passion to help move the club to stable ground.

Benitez was himself removed from the post after six years in charge and given a compromised £6 million severance package to leave Anfield. Now appointed the new boss of the current European and Serie A champions, Benitez gave his full backing to a Dalglish appointment when quizzed by Italian media.

“I think they should look at Kenny Dalglish,” Benitez said.

“He is the best man for the job. The owners should listen to the fans because they are unhappy.

“No one knows the club better than Dalglish, and he wants the job and in my opinion he should get it.”

There is growing support on the ground for the Scot to be handed the job, but Liverpool officials are understood to prefer Fulham boss Roy Hodgson. While the Craven Cottage club have maintained that they have received no approach for their coach, the former Switzerland national team manager is reportedly very keen on the job.

Dalglish was originally on the selection panel to appoint the new coach but was reportedly so unimpressed by the candidates available that he stepped down in order to be considered for the post. Many former players are also in favour of a return to the famous Boot Room tradition which has gradually disappeared over the years as the club went into decline, made worse subsequently with the American takeover.

Tags: English Premier League, football managers, Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool, Rafael Benitez