As if tomorrow’s FA Cup 3rd Round clash could not have gotten any more interesting, the news that was released this morning just after 11am from the club guaranteed that all eyes will be on Old Trafford tomorrow – the return of Kenny Dalglish as manger of Liverpool FC.
The word ‘legend’ is often used to describe past players and mangers of Liverpool FC but Kenny Dalglish is truly is a legend of Liverpool FC.
The news may not have come as a shock to many supporters since the mounting pressure on Roy Hodgson was to such extent that his removal had become more a question of when, and not if.
What has surprised some though is the timing of the removal, by ‘mutual consent’, of Hodgson. Some had suspected that it would occur soon after the loss against Blackburn Rovers.
Dalglish had been on holiday and out of the country so this may have caused a delay of the inevitable, but I’m sure if FSG had wanted Kenny to be appointed sooner it could have happened at any time, wherever Kenny was. Perhaps it was taking time to negotiate Hodgson’s terms of ‘mutual consent’? Perhaps FSG were looking for a different man to replace Hodgson but were fruitless in their search? Perhaps it was taking time to convince Kenny to take over the reigns? The exact reason is open to speculation and has been discussed among fans up and down the country. Whatever the reason is though, I for one am glad that he has been chosen to try and steer the club back on the right track and at the same time wish Hodgson all the best for his future. Although a bit more time for Dalglish to reacquaint himself with the players and staff before the clash with Manchester Utd would have been nice. Regardless, the team, the supporters and around Liverpool FC must surely have received a massive lift prior to the cup game and the travelling Kop should be in good voice tomorrow afternoon.
As far as squad and team selection goes, it will be interesting to see what changes, or if any changes Kenny makes for his first game in charge.
Match facts:
- The clubs have resolved ties against each other at the first time of asking on seven occasions
- Liverpool FC and Manchester Utd have won the FA Cup 18 times between them
- Liverpool FC have won 50, lost 60 and drawn 70 of their 180 meetings (in all competitions) with Manchester Utd
- Liverpool have won one of their last seven visits at Old Trafford, losing the other six.
Most recent FA Cup meetings:
- 11 May 1996 (FNL) Manchester Utd 1-0 Liverpool
- 24 Jan 1999 (R4) Manchester Utd 2-1 Liverpool
- 18 Feb 2006 (R5) Liverpool 1-0 Manchester Utd
Doubtful/Injured Players:
- Carragher (shoulder)
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