Reds owner to attend derby clash

Liverpool’s principal owner John Henry will be at Anfield for Sunday’s Merseyside derby as part of an extended visit to assess progress at the club since his October purchase.

The previous derby at Everton’s Goodison Park on October 17 was Henry’s first match, coming just two days after New England Sports Ventures completed their £300m takeover.

Since then the owners have appointed a director of football strategy in Damien Comolli, overseen the departure of manager Roy Hodgson and installed Kenny Dalglish in his place.

There have also been a number of changes to the backroom staff, primarily on the scouting front, while Dalglish’s appointment was followed swiftly by the recruitment of former Chelsea assistant manager Steve Clarke as first-team coach.

Henry is likely to spend plenty of time with Dalglish and Comolli as he seeks to gain information about the strength of the squad and get their assessment of recent performances.

From Dalglish’s point of view, despite publicly stating he is happy with the squad – describing it as the best one he has inherited since the last time he was Liverpool manager – he will want to know what opportunities there are to strengthen before the transfer window closes.

Henry’s arrival is likely to also address the issue of the chief executive’s post, which has been vacant since Christian Purslow stepped down in October.

Initial interviews took place last month and Henry’s intention was to have the new man in place early in the new year.