Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has revealed the club held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann about taking over from Rafael Benitez as manager. Benitez has been under pressure this season with the club struggling in the Champions League and Premier League."We attempted to negotiate an option," Hicks told the Liverpool Echo. "It was as an insurance policy, to have him become manager if Rafa left for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the UK press."
Benitez criticised Hicks and fellow owner George Gillett over their transfer policy and the Spaniard's remarks in November angered the duo and put his position in jeopardy. Hicks added that part of the reason for their talks with Klinsmann were also: "...in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason."
Klinsmann's services have now been secured by Bayern Munich and he will take over the German club at the end of this season.
The confirmation of talks between Klinsmann and his bosses will come as a blow to Benitez, The American owners and Benitez had clear the air talks after the Premier League loss to Manchester United on 16 December and Hicks now insists the Reds manager has their full support.