The former Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt has revealed that he had no option but to leave Liverpool after not getting regular game time under the former manager Kenny Dalglish. The Dutchman spent six years at Anfield before leaving for the Turkish club Fenerbahce in the summer for around £ 1 million. Even though he managed to win only one trophy during his time at Anfield, Kuyt was accepted by fans due to his tremendous work rate and ability to play anywhere across the pitch. He was primarily signed by the former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez as a striker.

However, his flexibility on the pitch meant that he was later converted into a right winger. After the club oversaw a number of managerial changes, Kuyt continued to maintain his position as a first-team regular at the club. The arrival of the Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, though, signalled the end of this reign for the 32-year-old, as he found himself on the bench more often than not. Kuyt has revealed that the time spent at Liverpool has converted him into a Liverpool fan, but he could not stay at the club any longer due to the lack of football. He also did not think that the situation will improve under the new management of Brendan Rodgers, which led to the departure in the summer.

“I had six wonderful years but in the last year I was not playing as much as I wanted to play. I always respect the decision of the club and the managers but I didn’t want to see myself on the bench watching football. I will be a Liverpool supporter all my life – but after my career I can spend time sitting down watching games,” said Kuyt. The player has made 21 appearances and scored six goals for Fenerbahce.