Roy Hodgson leaves Liverpool

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has left the club with Kenny Dalglish taking over until the end of the season.

The club announced Hodgson left by mutual consent on Saturday - the day before the FA Cup 3rd round game with rivals Manchester United.

Dalglish - a legend at Liverpool - will take charge of the team for Sunday's game and stay in charge for the rest of the season.

In a statement on the club's website, principal owner John Henry said:

"We are grateful for Roy's efforts over the past six months, but both parties thought it in the best interests of the club that he stand down from his position as team manager.

"We wish him all the best for the future."

Hodgson said:

"Being asked to manage Liverpool football club was a great privilege.

"Any manager would be honoured to manage a club with such an incredible history, such embedded tradition and such an amazing set of fans.

"Liverpool is one of the great clubs in world football. I have, however, found the last few months some of the most challenging of my career.

"I thank those with whom I have built up a close working relationship at the club for their loyalty and support during very testing times, and finally of course to the Liverpool fans, your passion and dedication to the club will see Liverpool at the top of the game once more."