Liverpool’s search for a new sporting director is beginning to get very interesting, with FSG exploring options both inside and outside the club.
According to BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, Liverpool have met with external candidates as they look for Richard Hughes’ successor, with Brentford technical director Lee Dykes among those who have spoken to the club.
However, there is an important detail in the report that really caught my attention.
FSG are understood to be minded towards making an internal appointment, with Julian Ward a strong contender.
And personally, I can see why.
Julian Ward makes a lot of sense
Ward already knows Liverpool inside out.
He previously worked as the club’s sporting director during the 2022/23 season before moving into his current role with FSG, meaning he understands the way the club operates, the recruitment structure and the expectations that come with working at Liverpool.
There wouldn’t be a huge settling-in period either.
That’s potentially important given that Liverpool need to have their sporting structure properly organised ahead of the January transfer window.
Richard Hughes officially stepped down earlier this month, with Liverpool confirming that the process of appointing his successor was already underway.
But I like that Liverpool are looking outside too
Having said that, I actually think it is encouraging that FSG aren’t simply assuming the answer has to come from within.
Lee Dykes is an interesting name.
The Brentford technical director has been at the club since 2019, initially joining as head of recruitment before becoming technical director in 2022. Brentford’s recruitment model has been heavily data-driven, with Dykes explaining how the club combines data, scouting and coaching input when identifying potential signings.
That’s obviously something that would be relevant at Liverpool.
The club have always placed huge importance on recruitment, data and identifying players before they become obvious targets, so it makes sense that someone with Dykes’ background would at least be considered.
And this is exactly why I don’t have a problem with FSG speaking to external candidates.
Do your homework. Speak to everyone. Then make the decision.
But would I be surprised if it’s Ward?
Not really.
If FSG genuinely prefer an internal appointment, Julian Ward looks like a very logical candidate.
He already knows the club, has previous experience in the sporting director role and understands the football operation from the inside.
There is also something to be said for continuity.
Liverpool have gone through plenty of change recently, with a new head coach in Andoni Iraola, major changes to the squad and now another change in the sporting structure following Hughes’ departure.
Bringing someone in who already understands the environment could provide some stability.
At the same time, I wouldn’t completely rule out an external appointment.
The fact Liverpool are speaking to people such as Dykes shows that FSG are taking the search seriously rather than simply handing the job to somebody already on the payroll.
And that’s exactly how it should be.
For me, the most interesting part of this story isn’t necessarily Lee Dykes or Julian Ward individually.
It’s the fact that Liverpool are clearly taking their time and looking at the bigger picture.
Whoever gets the job is going to have a huge responsibility.
January isn’t far away, and Liverpool need someone capable of working alongside Iraola, FSG and the existing recruitment team to make sure the club’s sporting strategy remains on the right track.
Julian Ward may currently be the strongest internal contender, but Liverpool are clearly keeping their options open — and I think that’s a very sensible way to approach such an important appointment.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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