Ruben Amorim impresses Liverpool in two specific ways

Liverpool like Ruben Amorim, according to reports, and see two reasons he stands out in their manager search. The Sporting boss is near the top of the shortlist.

The Athletic's extensive report into Liverpool's manager search gives the impression that two names really do sit at the top of the shortlist - Xabi Alonso and Ruben Amorim. These have been the names suggested for a long time, of course, but it's sounding more and more like one of these two are getting an offer.

Amorim is perhaps the 'surprise' name. The Sporting boss doesn't have anything like the reputation of Alonso, who was a far bigger name as a player and is coaching in a more prominent league.

But Liverpool really like Amorim. The report mentions two specific ways he stands out, too, as they hunt for their Jurgen Klopp successor.

Of course, Amorim winning Liga Portugal with Sporting puts him on the shortlist and makes him a contender. But there are more specific things that 'haven't gone unnoticed' at Liverpool.

Firstly, the way Amorim uses sports science to inform his training sessions. Secondly, his track record with injuries - that's something Liverpool are likely paying a lot of attention to as they deal with a truly ridiculous injury crisis.

Liverpool are looking into the data on a number of managers, with plenty scoring highly. As the report by the Athletic makes clear, though, 'scoring highly' isn't enough and some managers are 'unlikely' to make the final shortlist for a variety of reasons.

But things like this from Amorim make him a serious contender. The data says he's great, while there are other reasons he impresses in ways Liverpool like.

Alonso is almost certainly sitting on top of the shortlist but Amorim really isn't far behind. If Liverpool can't secure Alonso - or want to head in a different direction - there's a very good chance that the Portuguese boss is in the Anfield dugout next season.