• Premier League

Dalglish returns to Liverpool as non-executive director

Kenny Dalglish was sacked as Liverpool manager 16 months ago © Getty Images

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Kenny Dalglish is to return to Liverpool as a non-executive director on the club's board.

American owners Fenway Sports Group axed Dalglish as manager 16 months ago with Brendan Rodgers brought in to replace him. It was Dalglish's second spell in the Anfield hotseat.

Under Dalglish, Liverpool won the League Cup in 2012 and reached the FA Cup final where they lost to Chelsea, but finished a disappointing eighth in the Premier League.

"It is an honour and privilege to be asked to return to Liverpool as a director of the club," said Dalglish.

"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 Football Club.

"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."

John W. Henry, Liverpool's principle owner, added: "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.

"Kenny has a unique relationship with our supporters and embodies everything that is special about Liverpool. 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 at the club he has represented with such distinction."

Brendan Rodgers is also delighted to have Dalglish on board. He added: "When I met 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 club's 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."

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