New candidate tipped to follow Comolli

Former Barcelona sporting director Txiki Begiristain is in the running to succeed Damien Comolli at Liverpool following his departure.

Comolli was shown the door this week by the Reds' American owners and now the search is on to find the right man to carry out their strategy. The Frenchman was relieved of his duty ahead of the FA Cup semi-final victory over Everton due to concerns that a big-spending approach had not resulted in the kind of progress they had expected in the Premier League, and more emphasis will now be placed on youth. Ajax and Barcelona legend Johan Cruyff was one of the first names to be linked to the role soon after the decision but the Dutchman has ruled himself out of the running as he has no desire to move to England. Cruyff has however recommended Begiristain for the vacancy according to a report in the Sunday Times and the Anfield hierarchy are seriously considering his credentials. The former Spanish international is credited with helping to create the all-conquering Barca team, after bringing in Dani Alves, Gerard Pique and David Villa. He left the Camp Nou in 2010 following the departure of club president Joan Laporta.