Dalglish 'disappointed' at Liverpool dismissal

Kenny Dalglish

Kenny Dalglish has admitted his disappointment at being relieved of managerial duties at Liverpool, although he has insisted he will always be there for the club if they ever need his help.

Dalglish was dismissed by Liverpool principal owner John W Henry on Wednesday, following a meeting with Henry and Reds chairman Tom Werner in Boston where the three men underwent a thorough review of the recently completed season.

Liverpool won the Carling Cup and reached the final of the FA Cup to give the fans much to celebrate, but struggled to a poor eighth place finish in the Premier League as a series of off-field issues proved frequent distractions.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to have had the chance to come back to Liverpool Football Club as manager," Dalglish said. "I greatly appreciate the work that Steve [Clarke], Kevin [Keen], the players and all of the staff put in during my time and feel proud that we delivered the club's first trophy in six years winning the Carling Cup and came close to a second trophy in the FA Cup final.

"Whilst I am obviously disappointed to be leaving the football club, I can say that the matter has been handled by the owners and all concerned in an honourable, respectful and dignified way and reflects on the quality of the people involved and their continued desire to move the football club forward in the same way as when they arrived here."

The Scot claimed that he would not have swapped the victory in the Carling Cup - which saw the side defeat Championship side Cardiff City on penalties - for an improved finish in the league.

"Of course I am disappointed with results in the league, but I would not have swapped the Carling Cup win for anything as I know how much it meant to our fans and the club to be back winning trophies," he said.

Despite being removed from his position, Dalglish has made it known that his services will still be available to the club and owners if he can help in any capacity.

"I would like to thank all of the staff at the club for their effort and loyalty," he said. "I said when first approached about coming back as manager that I would always be of help if I can at any time and that offer remains the same.

"Finally, I want to put on record my heartfelt gratitude to Liverpool's fans, who have always given me and the club their unwavering support. Without them neither the club nor I would have achieved anything."

Story by Ghana/ Tony Bebli/ Joy Sports