Liverpool chairman Tom Werner is adamant that manager Brendan Rodgers has made significant improvements to the team since arriving at Anfield last summer.
The Northern Irishman, who replaced Kenny Dalglish at the helm, guided the Reds to a seventh-placed finish, one spot higher than last season's campaign.
While the Merseyside outfit failed to pick up any silverware this season, Werner believes that Rodgers has proved himself in his first year in charge.
"I think Brendan has made remarkable progress," Werner told the Liverpool Echo. "He's a great strategist and has shown strong leadership as he has led the team through this season.
"Obviously there is disappointment that we didn't finish higher in the table but the team has certainly improved as the season has gone on.
"The club is definitely moving in the right direction under Brendan. Our intention is to strengthen the squad further this summer and as owners we're very optimistic and excited about the future."
Meanwhile, Rodgers insisted yesterday that he is only interested in signing new players this summer who have a "winning mentality".
Danielle Joynson
