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- Dubai 04:32 05:49 12:21 15:48 18:47 20:04
Liverpool's manager Kenny Dalglish (L) challenges his Wigan Athletic counterpart Roberto Martinez (C) for the ball during their English Premier League soccer match at Anfield in Liverpool, northern England, March 24, 2012. (REUTERS)
Liverpool have more or less narrowed their managerial choices down to two.
Though Pep Guardiola’s statement after Barcelona won the Copa Del Rey – that he would consider a coaching offer from England, should make for an interesting spin of the wheel at Anfield.
Other than that, it seems the Fenway Group, which own the England club, will choose between former Holland manager Louis van Gaal and Wigan manager Roberto Martinez.
The Dutchman has been reportedly approached by Reds managing director Ian Ayre to replace axed Kenny Dalglish.
Van Gaal, 60, has been preferred above the likes of former England manager Fabio Capello.
However, the club’s American owners hinted they wanted a young manager and are leaning in favour of Roberto Martinez.
British press reported this morning that the Reds still have yet to make an offer to Martinez after talks in Florida.
But Wigan owner Dave Whelan reckons Martinez will stay at the DW Stadium even if the Reds make a move for his man.
In terms of Van Gaal, the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager, was being considered for the newly-created role of sporting director but had revealed his interest in the managerial hotseat.
Former Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas is also a leading candidate for the job.
But principal owner John W Henry is said to be impressed with Van Gaal’s reputation for rebuilding teams and guiding them to success
Strangely, Martinez’s current boss Whelan was quoted as saying: “I spoke to Roberto after he went to Miami and had a constructive meeting.
“I couldn’t say that he is going there for sure.
“I think he said: ‘Thank you but I only work when I’ve complete control.”
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