Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has emerged as a top target for Liverpool.

The News of the World says American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have identified O'Neill to succeed Rafa Benitez if Liverpool fail to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Hicks, Gillett, and managing director Christian Purslow are standing by beleaguered Benitez despite Liverpool's woeful recent run of form.

But behind the scenes the mood of staunch support for Benitez has shifted as Liverpool's season has lurched towards chaos, with six defeats, one draw and just one win in their last eight games.

The club are wary of making a knee-jerk reaction but recognise that unless results improve dramatically - and soon - they will have to consider replacing Benitez during the season rather than next summer.

Kenny Dalglish has been tipped to hold the Anfield fort if Benitez IS sacked before May but he would only be keeping the seat warm for O'Neill.