Liverpool are bracing themselves for the expected announcement this week that American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have clinched a £350million re-financing package.

And that comes as the extent of the fans' animosity to the co-owners has become apparent, with two polls showing a vast majority of the club's support want the Americans out.

If Hicks and Gillett do gain a stronger hold on the club they bought with bank loans last February, it is likely to signal another major step towards boss Benitez's departure.

And the League Managers' Association have become involved at this stage to offer advice to Benitez.

The LMA's new chief executive Richard Bevan, in a BBC Radio Five Live interview, has admitted the organisation has been in touch with Benitez.

This has clearly come following admittance by Hicks that he and his partner Gillett held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann to discuss the German taking over at Anfield.

Bevan, who is the former chief executive of the professional cricketers' association, said: "Yes, we have been in touch with Rafael Benitez.

"We have provided advice, support and encouragement. But obviously we are unable to say any more."