Brendan Rodgers has revealed that he took on the Liverpool job only after being assured full control of the team.

The Northern Irishman said that he was willing to pass up the opportunity to become the Reds' new manager if the club pressed ahead with plans to appoint a sporting director.

Louis van Gaal was recently linked with the role of sporting director, a job similar to the one performed by Damien Comolli before his departure.

However, those plans have been scrapped now that Rodgers has taken over at Anfield.

"I wanted to make sure I'd be in charge of football matters, I would control the team and control the work," said Rodgers. "One of the things you need to do is to know yourself - and I do.

"I have provided leadership all the way and I am better when I have control. I am not a power freak but I need to feel I can manage it in terms of the team and have a direct clear line through to the owners.

"Once that becomes hazed and grey, for me there is a problem."

Rodgers has signed a three-year deal at Liverpool.