Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has named Xabi Alonso as the leading candidate to succeed Arne Slot if the club ever decide to make a managerial change.
Nicol said in media remarks that Alonso appears to be the most natural option because of his personality, his understanding of Liverpool and his growing coaching profile.
He also suggested Andoni Iraola as a strong alternative if Liverpool were unable to land Alonso, pointing to the work the Spanish coach has produced in the Premier League.
The comments come within the context of media debate around Liverpool’s long-term managerial future, with no official signs from the club that a change is currently planned or that a formal search is under way.
That leaves Nicol’s comments in the realm of opinion and analysis, though they underline how often Alonso continues to be linked with Liverpool whenever questions arise over the manager’s seat at Anfield.