Liverpool stunned by Dave Whelan announcement

Liverpool have denied Dave Whelan's claim that they have offered Roberto Martinez the manager's job at Anfield.

The Wigan Athletic chairman revealed that Reds owner John Henry had offered the Spaniard the job during a meeting in Miami.

"He had a very constructive meeting," said Whelan. "They made an offer and he has agreed to consider it.

"Roberto wants control over football matters and that includes transfers, and if they agree to that, then I can see him becoming the Liverpool manager. I think what he has said is, 'thank you for your offer but I only work under the following rules: I have to have complete control of football. That's normally the way in England, that's how we all work'.

"I think they're considering his request and Roberto's considering their offer and they're going to talk again on Tuesday."

However, the Daily Mail understands that the Liverpool hierarchy are said to be stunned by Whelan's remarks, claiming that they have yet to offer him the job.

Martinez has been in charge at the DW Stadium since 2009.