In the interest of precision / fairness, I have little doubt Rafa would have worked for Staveley and PIF as he was already connected to Staveley from his time at Liverpool, was Newcastle manager when Staveley attempted the first takeover, and people like McParland (leading new manager search) are long time Benitez associates.
Think Gerrard would as well. It's always going to be different, the factors under consideration, for people directly involved, on the ground, skin in the game compared to parties at a distance free to talk. While the (rightly) strong sentiments among the latter are warranted, it still means nothing unless you have solutions.
It's easy to highlight Klopp, but he's ensconced in a top job, credit earned, secure. The test is if say Klopp, directly after his disappointing Dortmund end, is approached. You need to see people under pressure, needing a way through, to get the best possible info. What you get on them from their position of strength is worthless.
