Tom Hicks co-owner of Liverpool has revealed that he has held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann in the event that Rafael Benitez left the club. The future of Benitez has been uncertain for some time amidst media speculation regarding his relationship with club owners. Mixed results have also heaped pressure on the Anfield boss.

"We attempted to negotiate an option as an insurance policy... if Rafa left for Real Madrid or other clubs rumoured, " Hicks told the Liverpool Echo.

Benitez publically criticized the American owners transfer policy a fact which put the Spaniard’s position in jeopardy. Since the talks Klinsmann’s services have been secured by German Bundesliga side Bayern Munich and he will take over at the end of the season.

The talks reportedly took place in November when it was looking likely that the club would be knocked out of the Champions League.

"After George and I had our long and productive meeting with Rafa following the Manchester United match, we put all of our issues behind us and received Rafa's commitment that he wanted to stay with Liverpool," said Hicks.

Whilst Liverpool progressed in the Champions League, their form in the Premier League has not improved. They currently sit 12 points behind the leaders and to all intents and purpose are out of the title race. They were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Chelsea. They were also forced into a replay by Luton in the third round of the FA Cup.