Tom Hicks' influence at Liverpool is growing.

The Times says expected signing of a new contract by Rafa Benitez comes after a series of key appointments at Liverpool - with Ian Ayre now established as commercial manager and Philip Nash taking over as finance director - and, with George Gillett looking to offload his stake, Hicks has been eager to shape the club his way, despite persistent doubts about his ability to deliver the new stadium that is crucial to Liverpool's future plans.