Nicol Backs Dalglish Return

Dalglish had two spells as Liverpool manager Credit: Picture: Nick Potts/PA Archive/Press Association Images

Steve Nicol believes the return of Kenny Dalglish to Liverpool as a non-executive director can only be a help to manager Brendan Rodgers.

Dalglish was sacked as boss 17 months ago and replaced by Rodgers, who has guided the club to second in the Barclays Premier League table after their opening six games of the season.

The 62-year-old is now back with a role on the board and Nicol, who played alongside and was managed by his fellow Scot during a 13-year spell at Anfield, believes that can only benefit the manager.

"You have to look at Kenny when he took over as Liverpool manager, he had Bob Paisley to lean on and it depends how you use that," Nicol told BBC Radio Five Live.

"I think Kenny is a guy who, all he wants to do is help Liverpool and that means if he helps Brendan Rodgers in any way possible, whether it's scouting, whether it's a little bit of advice, I don't think Kenny will have a problem with it whatsoever.

"And if I'm Brendan Rodgers, I think I'm pretty happy that I've got a guy to lean on with the experience and the knowledge that Kenny has."

He added: "I think he probably was a little miffed that he was relieved of his duties but time's a great healer.

"Kenny's heart has always been with Liverpool.

"He's called a non-executive, there's no way Kenny is going back unless he has a say.

"I think that's good for Liverpool and it's a smart move."

Rodgers has immersed himself in the club's history since taking over and has regularly spoken about delving into the club's rich past in an attempt to improve their future fortunes.

Only this week he revealed how former players Robbie Fowler, Steve McManaman and Rob Jones had been brought on board to work with the under-21 and under-18 sides at the club's Kirkby academy.

"When I met with Kenny to discuss this appointment, I was struck by the passion and drive he still has in wanting to see Liverpool return to where it should be; one of the most successful club's in the world," Rodgers said.

"We are all together in that goal - owners and supporters, players and management and also icons such as Kenny Dalglish.

"I want people around us who have this club and what it stands for in their heart."