Tom Hicks today claimed he has the power to block any attempt by Liverpool co-owner George Gillett to sell his half of the club.

Hicks this week insisted he had no intention of parting with his own 50 per cent stake at Anfield, despite renewed interest from Dubai International Capital.

It is believed American businessmen Hicks and Gillett have suffered a breakdown in their relationship and DIC, the investment arm of the Maktoum royal family, remain determined to secure a controlling interest in Liverpool.

With Hicks refusing to budge, publicly at least, DIC are considering making a bid for Gillett's stake.

But Hicks told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "Not only am I not going to sell, my partner cannot sell without my approval.

"So, I kind of have the ability to determine the outcome of what is going to happen, and I am right in the middle of that."

DIC are only interested in buying Gillett's shares if they can gain control of Liverpool, which would involve Hicks selling at least part of his stake.

"For a lot of reasons I can't discuss, I haven't been able to fix it yet," Hicks said of the club's ownership.

"But I am preparing to be in a position to fix it."