Liverpool's principal owner John Henry has lauded Kenny Dalglish as "extraordinary" after the Reds claimed their first trophy in six years with a penalty shootout win over Cardiff City.

Dalglish was appointed by the American 14 months ago, after Roy Hodgson was sacked following a breif spell in charge.

The Scot has been strongly challenged by the media recently following his handling of the Luis Suarez racism row, but after the game at Wembley, Henry gave his full backing to the manager.

"The whole club had a lot of pressure but Kenny has been extraordinary from day one," said Henry.

"This is the first step for this club in trying to get to the point where we're talking about things on the field rather than off the field.

"It's been going on for so many years now that it was time for the club to step up and win a big match like this."

Henry's Fenway Sports Group bought the Anfield club for £300m in October 2010.