Klopp praises appointment of new sporting director

Jurgen Klopp has spoken positively at the appointment of a new sporting director at Liverpool.

Michael Edwards, who joined the club in 2011, has been promoted from his role of technical director, and will now serve as sporting director in a new-look set-up.

Edwards will lead future transfer negotiations as part of the role, with owners Fenway Sports Group having been impressed with his previous work.

Klopp has praised the appointment of the club’s first ever sporting director, having worked alongside one at both Borussia Dortmund and Mainz.

“This decision is hugely positive for us,” the Liverpool manager said. “It will make us better and stronger in managing the process of building and retaining playing talent at all age groups.

“Development is so important and it makes sense to have a position, within the football structure specifically, that focuses on where we can improve.

“It’s no secret I like the concept of a sporting director and having worked under this model previously I have found it to be nothing but positive and forward thinking.

“Michael is absolutely the right person for this. He has the knowledge, expertise and personality to flourish in the role and I was delighted when he told me he would be accepting the position.

“Importantly, he also has a fantastic team of people around him, who have all played a significant role in putting together the talent we currently have in the first team, development squad and at even younger age levels.”