Liverpool rejected by Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers as Anfield looks to replace sacked Kenny Dalglish Liverpool sacked Dalglish, despite winning their first trophy for six years, after finishing a disappointing eighth in the Premier League following their worst home form in the league since before Bill Shankly arrived on Merseyside in 1959. Fenway Sports Group, the club's owners, have had an approach to speak to Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martínez accepted and were also keen to interview Rodgers. However, it is understood the 39 year-old has rejected the approach to manage the five-time European champions. Meanwhile, Telegraph Sport understands that Andre Villa-Boas remains keen on returning to the Premier League following his brief spell at Chelsea. It is understood that the club have compiled a list including Villas-Boas, Pep Guardiola, Fabio Capello, Jürgen Klopp, Frank de Boer and Didier Deschamps. Meanwhile, John Barnes has backed Rafael Benítez to make a surprise return to the club he managed for four seasons before he was sacked by its former owners. "I think it has to be someone with a proven track record," Barnes said. You could have someone as inexperienced as Martínez or Andre Villa-Boas or someone as experienced as Rafa. Rafa knows the club so him coming back will be a good move and I support anyone coming into the club with a proven track record - he will improve the side. Indeed, bookmakers have Benítez placed as the third favourite - behind Martínez and Villa-Boas - to replace Dalglish.