Hicks reveals Dubai talks

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has revealed he held talks with Dubai International Capital but stressed reports that he was ready to sell the club are far from true. Hicks also revealed he hopes to keep Rafa Benitez as the club for a long period, despite talking to Jurgen Klinsmann about the role.

"I did talk to them about a 10-15 per cent participation but that was months ago," he told Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme.

"We gave them a valuation as a minority investor but they thought the price was too high. We have had no conversations since then.

"We would have used that capital towards the new stadium but we will find other ways.

"We have the capital. I have put in a lot of money and we will put in more in if need be. I am very excited about the future of the club.

"This will be the finest football stadium in the world. People should be very proud of it and I want to win the support of Liverpool fans with my actions."

"Rafa has a contract for two more years. He will be here for at least the length of it and hopefully longer than that," he continued.

"He has our full support. Rafa has shown his strong intent to do the right thing with us about the club.

"He has been a gentleman and we have had much better communication. He has my total backing. I have made that very clear."