Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have completed their £350 million refinancing of the club and revealed their definitive plans for the new stadium, while giving their backing to manager Rafael Benitez.

The Americans have come under fire recently from supporters upset at a discreet move to install Juergen Klinsmann and dispose of the Spaniard, who has led the Reds to two Champions League finals.

However after demonstrations against their tenure, they have come out in support of the popular Benitez.

"Since the meeting with Rafa on December 16th, at which some widely reported communications issues were discussed, Rafa has been assured that he has continuing and enthusiastic support as the club's manager," Hicks said.

"Reflecting that support, we recently approved his transfer payment request to sign Martin Skrtel for £6.5 million and are in discussions with Rafa and club management regarding additional player signings this summer.

"Rafa is under contract for two more seasons following this season. I am solidly behind Rafa and am confident of the team's competitive prospects under his continuing leadership."

Rumours that the pair were set to sell the club to Dubai business DIC less than a year after taking over now look wide of the mark.

The Anfield club stated: "Kop Football Holdings Limited has secured a £350 million financing package which replaces previous financing that had been due in February 2008.

"The new financing will meet all of the club's current financial needs and includes facilities to support the commencement of construction for the new stadium at Stanley Park and to provide working capital for the club and future player transfers."

Hicks said himself that the news will push through the plans - and denied that they have been watered down somewhat since their original unveiling.

The new design, by HKS, is set to seat 71,000 spectators, including 18,500 in an expanded Kop.

"This new financing package is a strong vote of confidence in the club's financial strength and a recognition of the exceptional opportunity represented by the construction of the club's new state-of-the-art stadium at Stanley Park," he said.

"The successful completion of this financing package is particularly significant in light of the currently challenging credit-market environment.

"With the refinancing process now done, club supporters can look forward to the timely commencement of construction work on the new stadium and renew their focus on actions on the pitch.

"HKS has developed a more efficient design that, at the same time, is just as stunning as its original design.

"Liverpool supporters should have high expectations for the future: a premier sporting experience at their new stadium at Stanley Park and a winning club on the pitch for years to come."

The ground should open in time for the 2011/12 season.

Jonathan Symcox / Eurosport