Kenny Dalglish's first season in charge of Liverpool saw him famously guide the club to a league and FA Cup double in 1985/86. It was a glorious introduction to life as player-manager for the Kop legend, who was the last man to preside over a team of domestic champions at Anfield.

That was back in 1990, and the trophy that Liverpool's greatest-ever manager Bill Shankly famously called "our bread and butter" has not been seen by the Kop since.

But, as the search for Rafa Benitez's successor begins in earnest, the possible return of 'King Kenny' to the hot-seat has got the Reds fans dreaming again.

Bookmakers make Dalglish the second-favourite, behind Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill, to succeed Benitez. It is worth noting that the former Scotland striker is already Liverpool's academy ambassador and remains a hugely popular figure with supporters.

Dalglish could be placed in temporary charge at the very least, although O'Neill remains the forerunner for the permanent role.

Yet, with Liverpool in such disarray on and off the field, would the Ulsterman fancy the challenge of trying to turn round such a shambles?

Moving from Villa to Liverpool is a significant step up but, while warring Americans Tom Hicks and George Gillett remain owners of a club they are trying to sell, little on-field progress is anticipated.

O'Neill has clashed with Villa's American owner Randy Lerner and would not want more of the same at Anfield, especially with little funds expected to be available for new players.