André Villas-Boas has indicated that he will need convincing that the managerial vacancy at Liverpool is the right opportunity for him, an assertion that contradicts suggestions that the Portuguese is desperate to take over from Kenny Dalglish.
Liverpool are expected to interview Villas-Boas this week as their search for a new manager intensifies but it appears that they will have to win over the 34-year-old as much as he will need to impress them.
Having seen his reputation damaged by a bruising eight-month spell as Chelsea manager, Villas-Boas has committed himself to doing everything in his power to ensure that his next career move is the right one. Although Liverpool are a sufficiently attractive proposition for him to hear what Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club’s owner, has to say, it seems that it is anything but a foregone conclusion that he would take the job if offered it.
Speaking before yesterday’s Portuguese Cup final between Académica and Sporting Lisbon, Villas-Boas took the opportunity to congratulate Chelsea on their Champions League success while also admitting that he has yet to decide which project is right for him.
“The biggest award is to win the Champions League,” Villas-Boas said. “Congratulations to [Roberto] Di Matteo and the players. I’m still choosing the right project and that decision will take the necessary time.”
Liverpool have already received permission to speak to Roberto Martínez about the possibility of him becoming their third managerial appointment in less than two years. Discussions have yet to begin, however, and it is understood that Martínez will depart the UK for a family holiday today.
With reports in France suggesting that Didier Deschamps has no wish to be considered for the position owing to his contentment at Marseilles, it appears that Liverpool’s pursuit of a new manager is still some way from drawing to a successful conclusion.
Against the ongoing backdrop of uncertainty, several Liverpool players are seeking assurances about what the future holds. Chief among them is Dirk Kuyt, who is ready to reconsider his decision to leave the club this summer if a manager is appointed who is willing to offer him regular playing time.
The Holland forward became frustrated over his role in the Liverpool team and was ready to consider offers from clubs on the Continent when the transfer window opens on July 1. The departure of Dalglish, however, has encouraged Kuyt to await the arrival of a new manager before going ahead with his plans to leave.
“I hope I can stay with Liverpool,” Kuyt said. “With Dalglish as manager, I didn’t have the impression he would let me start from the beginning next season. We have to wait and see now. I’m not sure yet what Liverpool will do with this manager vacancy.”
Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger are also involved in contract negotiations, which are being conducted by Ian Ayre, the managing director.
Tony Barret.
Liverpool are expected to interview Villas-Boas this week as their search for a new manager intensifies but it appears that they will have to win over the 34-year-old as much as he will need to impress them.
Having seen his reputation damaged by a bruising eight-month spell as Chelsea manager, Villas-Boas has committed himself to doing everything in his power to ensure that his next career move is the right one. Although Liverpool are a sufficiently attractive proposition for him to hear what Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club’s owner, has to say, it seems that it is anything but a foregone conclusion that he would take the job if offered it.
Speaking before yesterday’s Portuguese Cup final between Académica and Sporting Lisbon, Villas-Boas took the opportunity to congratulate Chelsea on their Champions League success while also admitting that he has yet to decide which project is right for him.
“The biggest award is to win the Champions League,” Villas-Boas said. “Congratulations to [Roberto] Di Matteo and the players. I’m still choosing the right project and that decision will take the necessary time.”
Liverpool have already received permission to speak to Roberto Martínez about the possibility of him becoming their third managerial appointment in less than two years. Discussions have yet to begin, however, and it is understood that Martínez will depart the UK for a family holiday today.
With reports in France suggesting that Didier Deschamps has no wish to be considered for the position owing to his contentment at Marseilles, it appears that Liverpool’s pursuit of a new manager is still some way from drawing to a successful conclusion.
Against the ongoing backdrop of uncertainty, several Liverpool players are seeking assurances about what the future holds. Chief among them is Dirk Kuyt, who is ready to reconsider his decision to leave the club this summer if a manager is appointed who is willing to offer him regular playing time.
The Holland forward became frustrated over his role in the Liverpool team and was ready to consider offers from clubs on the Continent when the transfer window opens on July 1. The departure of Dalglish, however, has encouraged Kuyt to await the arrival of a new manager before going ahead with his plans to leave.
“I hope I can stay with Liverpool,” Kuyt said. “With Dalglish as manager, I didn’t have the impression he would let me start from the beginning next season. We have to wait and see now. I’m not sure yet what Liverpool will do with this manager vacancy.”
Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger are also involved in contract negotiations, which are being conducted by Ian Ayre, the managing director.
Tony Barret.
It really isn't hard to work out.
