Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Jorg Schmadtke as the club's new sporting director to replace Julian Ward, who now leaves Anfield after 11 years in various roles.

Schmadtke was previously sporting director at Wolfsburg, a job he held for four years, and will start work at Liverpool from 1 June - subject to work permit formalities.

The 59-year-old was himself a former professional player, having been a Bundesliga goalkeeper.

"Firstly, I would like to welcome Jorg to Liverpool Football Club in the knowledge that he will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into a role in which such qualities can only be beneficial both to him and us," FSG president Mike Gordon said.

"Jorg will work with our football operations department as it continues to provide support for Jurgen Klopp, in keeping with our ongoing endeavour to keep growing and developing the club in all areas.

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"At the same time as we welcome Jorg, we must also bid a fond farewell to Julian Ward, who has served us with unstinting diligence, fortitude and energy in a number of roles, the most recent one being sporting director.

"We wish Julian and his young family the very best for the future and thank him for everything he has done for Liverpool FC during the past 11 years."

Ward had first joined Liveprool as a scout in 2012 and later took up a new role that included overseeing the development of players out on loan and football partnerships. He was eventually promoted to assistant sporting director and replaced the revered Michael Edwards in that position at the end of the 2021/22 season last summer.

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