(Update: Multiple reports say Jurgen Klopp will be the next manager, with an announcement coming as early as Friday)
(Update: Liverpool to have a new manager in place by next game)
On Sunday, Liverpool sacked Manager Brendan Rodgers. The decision came shortly after the Reds 1-1 draw versus Everton in the Merseyside Derby. On Monday Rodgers spoke out.
“I am, of course, incredibly disappointed to be leaving Liverpool Football Club,” Rodgers said.
“It has been both an honour and a privilege to manage one of the game’s great clubs for the last three years.”
“I have worked every day to represent the club to the best of my ability, to develop both individual players and a team that the club’s magnificent fans can be proud of.”
“There have been some very memorable moments during my time at Liverpool and I would like to thank all of the players for their hard work and commitment.”
“The current squad is one in transition, but they have some real talent and are showing a strong sense of togetherness.”
“I expect to see them continue to grow and develop over the coming weeks and I wish them and my successor well for the rest of the season.”
In a statement posted on the club’s official website yesterday, Liverpool said Brendan Rodgers: “will leave his post with immediate effect after having his contract terminated.”
The Liverpool statement regarding the Manager search read: “we hope to make an appointment in a decisive and timely manner.”
Rodgers just said last week that he is well aware of the popular opinion in favor of his dismissal. Many people wanted him sacked, and the hashtag #RodgersOut had been trending among Liverpool fans for quite awhile. (Today, those people got their wish) Likewise with #RodgersIn, although that is utilized in a snarky way by supporters of rival clubs.
A statement attributed to principal owner John W Henry, chairman Tom Werner and president Mike Gordon was issued regarding the dismissal of Brendan Rodgers.
It didn’t say much, other than the industry standard “we had some good times, this is a difficult decision, we thank him for his service” kind of stuff.
Paul M. Banks owns, operates and sometimes writes The Sports Bank.net, which is partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network. The website is also featured on News Now.
Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, currently contributes to the Chicago Tribune RedEye. He also appears regularly on numerous talk shows all across the country. Catch him Tuesdays on KOZN 1620 The Zone.
Follow him on Twitter and Instagram