Liverpool to talk to Martinez about manager's job

LONDON (AP) - Wigan manager Roberto Martinez was given permission by his club on Thursday to speak to Liverpool about filling the job vacated by Kenny Dalglish's dismissal.

The approach came while Wigan chairman Dave Whelan was with Martinez, a day after Dalglish was fired following Liverpool's eighth-place finish in the Premier League.

The 38-year-old Martinez has impressed during three years at Wigan, presiding over a series of late victories this season - including over Manchester United - to keep the northwest team in the Premier League.

Liverpool is owned by Fenway Sports Group, parent company of the Boston Red Sox.

"Liverpool is functioning without a heart. I mentioned that to Roberto and I think it's true,'' Whelan told Sky Sports.