Hansen defends chairman

Last updated : 06 January 2004 By Adam Bryant
"I cannot speak too highly of the contribution David Moores has made," said the former Liverpool defender. "Every time he has been asked the question by a manager, he has provided money and bank-rolled a massive transfer outlay.

"He has backed managers 100% at a time when chairmen contemplate change after two seconds rather than two years. His money has always been where his mouth is.

"For David to say that he would consider his own future is a sign that maybe he feels that some changes might be good. One thing is certain - if he does it will not be for his own benefit, it will be for the benefit of Liverpool Football Club. This is how he thinks.

"But Liverpool must now do what they have been good at in the past. They must regroup and win football matches - this is what will make the unrest and speculation go away. The manager is under pressure, but I am on the side of Moores when he says he supports Houllier.

"I have never once said in my 13 years since I left Liverpool that a manager should be sacked because I know how hard the job is. What Liverpool need now is for everyone involved with the club, and with a feeling for it, to deliver 100% support and for the team to start winning matches.

"The players also need to be reminded that this is Liverpool they are playing for. If they simply accept that fourth is good enough they will be lying down and accepting it is all over - and I honestly don't believe they think like that."