Hicks is focused on an end game.

How can he maximise the value of his shareholding whilst eliminating as much of the downside risk as possible?

Clearly once the ground is built (and full each week) the business will be worth of alot of money. As Arsenal has shown. But the cost of getting there; the stadium and keeping a player roster that keeps liverpool in the CL each year is prohibitive.

What he needs is a risk free and cheap way of getting to that prize.

Gillett selling presents an excellent opportunity. Despite noises to the contrary he wont be buying Gillett’s stake. Too much financial exposure. He needs a partner. He needs access to additional financial strength.

He wants DIC as a partner. He wants to sell a portion of his stake to cover his share of the future ground development costs (the extra £300m that is needed on top of the £350m). And if he can clear off the original loan even better. A 20% holding for free if you like. Or if he doesnt clear off the original loan a guarantee that as a minority holder he can still have access to his share of club surpluses/ revenues to pay his interest debt.

He does not want to cash out now. He wants to get to the profitable end game. But DIC cannot walk away expecting to call his bluff. Hicks has a plan even with his disengaged partner.

The plan would include a ‘fire sale’. Gerrard and Torres to go (£70m) would help eliminate the need for CL qualification for each of the next 5 years. Just maintain a presence in the Premiership and perhaps UEFA as a bonus. And rebuild once the stadium is in place.

Parry who is on a £1m payment clause should his contract be terminated at any point for any reason is culpable of a crime against football. Liverpool is heading for meltdown.