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Friday, 4 October 2013

Liverpool legend Dalglish returns to Anfield as a director.

Kenny Dalglish has made a shock return to Liverpool as a director less than 17 months after he was sacked from his second spell as manager.
Dalglish, who is widely regarded as Liverpool’s greatest player and won eight titles and three European cups between 1977 and 1991, is coming back to Anfield as a ‘non-executive’ role after accepting an invitation from Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool’s American owners.
John W Henry, Liverpool’s principal owner, believes Dalglish will 'make a valuable contribution' to the club’s strategy and is delighted the 62-year-old Scot, who will attend today’s clash with Crystal Palace, has agreed to assume the role.
Back in town: Former manager Dalglish is to return to Liverpool as a director
Back in town: Former manager Dalglish is to return to Liverpool as a director
There is no question Dalglish was hurt following his dismissal in May 2012 but he is thrilled to be involved at Anfield again and insisted he had no second thoughts when Henry called to discuss the possibilities of him taking up a position.
Dalglish said: ‘It is an honour and privilege to be asked to return to Liverpool as a Director of the Club. I have always said if there is anything I could do to help this Club I would make myself available - when the call came I had no hesitation.
‘I am looking forward to working with the board of directors and contributing to the strategic issues that affect Liverpool FC. Liverpool has given me and my family so much since we came here just over 36 years ago and my priority is and will always be to have the Club’s best interests at heart.'
Happy days: Dalglish, Alan Hansen (left) and Graeme Souness (right) hold the Milk Cup aloft in 1984
Happy days: Dalglish, Alan Hansen (left) and Graeme Souness (right) hold the Milk Cup aloft in 1984
Success: Dalglish and Liverpool team-mate Ian Rush celebrate after winning the FA Cup in 1986
Success: Dalglish and Liverpool team-mate Ian Rush celebrate after winning the FA Cup in 1986
Henry ended Dalglish’s reign after Liverpool’s form in the Barclays Premier League tailed off dramatically and resulted in them finishing in eighth position. There was, however, success that year as Liverpool went to Wembley three times, won the League Cup and qualified for Europe.
‘We are delighted Kenny has accepted our offer to join Liverpool as a non-executive board director and we are sure he will make a valuable contribution to the club’s strategy,’ Henry said. ‘Kenny has a unique relationship with our supporters and embodies everything special about Liverpool.
‘We are thrilled the club will benefit from his experience and passion Kenny has a unique insight on the values and traditions that helped to make Liverpool one of the greatest sporting institutions, not just in football, but in world sport. We are proud and honoured to have him back.’
Reunited: Dalglish (centre) with Liverpool chairman Tom Werner (left) and owner John W Henry after winning the Carling Cup in 2012
Reunited: Dalglish (centre) with Liverpool chairman Tom Werner (left) and owner John W Henry after winning the Carling Cup in 2012
Past master: Dalglish with Luis Suarez (left) during his second spell in charge at Anfield
Past master: Dalglish with Luis Suarez (left) during his second spell in charge at Anfield
Controversy: Luis Suarez refusing to shake hands with Patrice Evra was one of the most controversial moments of Dalglish's second spell in charge at Liverpool
Many will wonder how the dynamic will work between Brendan Rodgers and Dalglish but Liverpool’s manager has no concerns about his predecessor assuming a prominent rank.
Having given mentor roles at Liverpool’s Academy to former players Robbie Fowler, Steve McManaman and Rob Jones this week, Rodgers believes Dalglish’s return is crucial for the club’s continued well-being.
Returned: Fowler (centre) and McManaman (right) have been given mentor roles at Liverpool's academy
Returned: Fowler (centre) and McManaman (right) have been given mentor roles at Liverpool's academy
Rodgers, whose side can return to the top of the table should they beat Palace, said: ‘When I met with Kenny to discuss this appointment, I was struck by the passion and drive he still has in wanting to see Liverpool return to where it should be - one of the most successful clubs in the world.
‘We are all together in that goal - owners and supporters, players and management and also icons such as Kenny Dalglish. I want people around us who have this club and what it stands for in their heart.’
Welcome: Liverpool boss Rodgers (right) is happy to have Dalglish back at Anfield
Welcome: Liverpool boss Rodgers (right) is happy to have Dalglish back at Anfield

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