Ex-Liverpool sporting director Julian Ward has made a surprise return to the club.
Ward left his original post within the Anfield hierarchy in summer 2023, just 12 months after stepping up to replace his former superior Michael Edwards in the role.
But the 42-year-old will again be involved with the Reds after being lured back by Edwards to operate as owners Fenway Sports Group’s new technical director.
Since being appointed CEO of football for the Americans’ sporting operations, Edwards has appointed Richard Edwards as the club’s new sporting director.
The highly-respected talent spotter has also drafted in Benfica’s Pedro Marques as director of football development while David Woodfine will return as Hughes’ deputy.
Ward’s remit will be to oversee player development across FSG’s football operations, with the Boston-based group eyening an expanded portfolio of multi-club ownership.
He is also set to be the direct point of reference for Marques, who arrives boasting an impressive CV that includes spells within Sporting Lisbon and Manchester City.
Edwards’ return in March, after a two-year absence, has helped shape Liverpool’s search for Jurgen Klopp’s successor with Feyenoord’s Arne Slot set to be appointed.