Neal: Dalglish was needed

Liverpool - Phil Neal says Kenny Dalglish's appointment was needed at Anfield.Liverpool's most decorated player, Phil Neal, believes the club made the right call in appointing Kenny Dalglish as manager.

After their worst start to a Premier League season in their history under Roy Hodgson, Dalglish was initially appointed until the end of the season as caretaker boss.

But earlier this month, the Scot was given the job on a permanent basis, and according to Neal, who was involved in each of Liverpool's European Cup successes between 1977 and 1984, Dalglish came in at just the right time.

"He's certainly turned the team and the fans around magnificently," Neal said.

"I think it was what was needed at the club. Kenny had worked at the academy and knew the players."Well done to him for instilling the confidence required for them to make the jump to the first team.

"We're looking forward to a new season and new challenges with renewed optimism."

Such was The Reds' revival under Dalglish that Liverpool came within four points of qualifying for the Europa League, a shard of light on an otherwise disappointing term.

However, the form of Luis Suarez and the anticipated return of Steven Gerrard has given many Liverpool fans reason to believe that next season could be their best chance since the days of Dalglish, to re-claim the league title.