Hicks gives Rafa transfer backing

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has given Rafa Benitez the green light and backed the Spaniard's transfer targets for the summer. Liverpool are believed to be considering a move for Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry.

"We had a great meeting," Hicks said before yesterday's second discussion. "We talked about a lot of things and it was very positive and encouraging. We have agreed to meet again and it is a very healthy situation. Rafa is happy and wants to talk about where he is taking the club."

Benitez and Hicks met along with Hicks' younger son Tom Jr., and the American agreed to back any transfer activity that Benitez would be interested in.