Kenny Dalglish to return to Liverpool as a director

Kenny Dalglish is to return to Liverpool FC as a non-executive director.

The news was confirmed by Liverpool FC on Friday evening:

Fenway Sports Group and Liverpool FC today announced that Kenny Dalglish is returning to Liverpool Football Club after accepting an invitation to join the board of directors.

Principal owner John W. Henry explained:

“We’re delighted Kenny has accepted our offer. He has a unique relationship with the club and embodies everything about the club.”

Dalglish, who left the club 16 months ago as manager says he didn’t hesitate to take up the new role at the club:

“It is an honour and privilege to be asked to return to Liverpool as a director of the club. I have always said if there is anything I could do to help this club I would make myself available – when the call came I had no hesitation.

“I am looking forward to working with the board of directors and contributing to the strategic issues that affect Liverpool Football Club. Liverpool has given me and my family so much since we came here just over 36 years ago and my priority is and will always be to have the club’s best interests at heart.”

Manager Brendan Rodgers, who replaced Dalglish, said:

“When I met 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.

“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.”

Rodgers was key to Dalglish's return. Current boss embraced the idea. Secure in his own role and can only see positives from having him back

— James Pearce (@JamesPearceEcho) October 4, 2013

The Mirror report:

Current Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers was involved in discussions with his predecessor over a return.

While Dalglish won’t be involved in day to day team matters, it is clear he will be on hand to offer advice if needed – just as Ferguson is at Old Trafford.

Dalglish will be on the LFC board alongside principal owner Henry, chairman Tom Werner, managing director Ian Ayre and FSG partners David Ginsberg, Michael Gordon and Michael Egan.

WELCOME BACK KING KENNY.