Liverpool begin search for new boss as Benitez departs

LIVERPOOL are beginning their search for a new manager after confirming the departure of Rafael Benitez yesterday.

Benitez has left Anfield by mutual consent after six years in charge following a difficult season. Former Reds boss Kenny Dalglish, now an academy ambassador at the club, is to assist managing director Christian Purslow in identifying a successor but no timescale has been put on an appointment.

With owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett having put the club up for sale, Dalglish himself has been mentioned as a possible short-term solution but several other names have already been touted.