Liverpool intend to make a swift move to replace sacked manager Brendan Rodgers, with the new man expected to be in place by next week.
Here, we look at what the next Reds boss has to get to grips with once he is appointed.
IDENTITY
Four different managers in just over five years mean Liverpool have lost their way on and off the pitch. Having been overtaken by the superior spending power of both Manchester clubs, Chelsea and Arsenal, the Reds need to work out what they stand for and how they want to achieve it and the manager has a huge part to play in that.
TRANSFERS
Rodgers spent almost £300million in just over three years but of the 31 players brought in very few have been a success. Not all those were his choices and the much-maligned transfer committee has been a failure. Owners Fenway Sports Group expect the new appointment to get more out of the players Rodgers had at his disposal and he will be expected to work within the existing framework, although there could be minor tweaks made.
DEFENCE
Even during the unexpected but thrilling challenge for the title in 2013/14, Liverpool's Achilles heel was at the back, conceding 50 times. Goals are now in shorter supply but there has been no tightening up in defence and in their last six matches they have conceded after taking the lead, with five of those resulting in draws.
TACTICS
Rodgers prided himself on having innovative ideas and being flexible but it often worked against him, chopping and changing formations and playing players out of position. The new manager needs to pick a system based on the players at his disposal and stick to it to bring some continuity rather than tinker too much, too often.
Source: PA-WIRE
