DIC deny lining up Jose Mourinho to replace Rafa if they win power battle

Apr 28 2008

Jose Mourinho disputes a decision during the game - Picture: MARTIN BIRCHALL

LIVERPOOL fans’ groups have been assured that Jose Mourinho has not been offered Rafael Benitez’s job as manager at Anfield

In a situation similar to the one admitted by co-owners Tom Hicks that they did meet Jurgen Klinsmann last year to discuss a possible appointment at Anfield, it has now been claimed that Dubai International Capital have held conversations with former Chelsea manager Mourinho.

But sources at DIC last night denied that they have ever “offered the job to Mourinho, or met him to discuss it”.

And DIC’s representatives, who have good relations with a number of Liverpool fans’ groups including the recently formed Spirit of Shankly organisation, have gone to the point of contacting them to deny speculation over Mourinho.

They are aware that Liverpool fans would react with horror if they believed Mourinho was a possible replacement for Benitez, who has been shown that he has fans’ full support to continue in the job.

Anfield supporters have not forgiven Mourinho for much of the rhetoric and confrontational attitude towards the club taken over the years by the Portuguese coach.