DIRK KUYT has staked his claim to become a future Liverpool manager - by leading his new club to promotion after just three months.
The Dutch striker spent six years at Anfield, scoring 71 goals in 285 games before leaving in 2012.
Kuyt took charge of Belgian side Beerschot - Sheffield United's sister club - in late December.
The 43-year-old has now led the Antwerp outfit back to the top flight after a two-year absence.
They won 2-1 at Oostende on Sunday to seal promotion, with goals from Ian Wright's grandson D'Margio Wright-Phillips and former Stoke and Bolton winger Thibaud Verlinden.
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Beerschot need just one point from their two remaining games to seal the second division title.
It is a personal triumph for Kuyt, whose first management job with Dutch side ADO Den Haag lasted just five months before he was sacked in November 2022.
The Holland international is set to be offered an extension to his contract, which runs out this summer.
Kuyt said: "I will look to the future. I want to develop as a coach, but that could be with Beerschot.
"The potential here is huge. There is still a way to go, but the club is back at the top level once more.
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"It has been a tough challenge. Promotion was a must, there was no plan B, but no one expected us to go up.
"Everyone at the club has overachieved - players, staff and management. I am proud to be part of it."
Kuyt is not in the running to replace Jurgen Klopp, who will leave Anfield at the end of the season.
Liverpool are already said to have a number one target and will reportedly meet his agent on Tuesday.
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Beerschot share the same owner as Sheffield United in Saudi prince Abdullah bin Musaid Al Saud.