Andre Villas-Boas' interest in the Liverpool job brought forward plans to axe Kenny Dalglish yesterday, it has been revealed. The Daily Express says former Chelsea manager Villas-Boas has reportedly held talks with Liverpool over replacing sacked boss Dalglish at Anfield.

It is thought there was contact between Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) and Villas-Boas prior to yesterday's decision to terminate Dalglish's contract.

And it seems that an expression of interest by the Portuguese boss in taking charge on Merseyside prompted FSG's action late yesterday afternoon.

Villas-Boas is now heavy favourite with bookies to take charge of Liverpool, just two months after he left Chelsea.

The 34-year-old fits in with principal owner John W Henry's desire for a young and hungry manager to replace Dalglish.