Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards speak out after Liverpool confirm new sporting director

Richard Hughes has spoken out after being appointed as Liverpool’s new sporting director.

The former Scotland international has been headhunted by Michael Edwards, following his return to the Reds after being appointed FSG’s CEO of Football last week. The pair boast a professional and personal relationship dating back more than 20 years from their time at Portsmouth together.

Hughes is currently the first-team technical director at AFC Bournemouth, but it was confirmed earlier this month that he would leave the club at the end of the season. And with Edwards having a longstanding desire to work with Hughes, he has succeeded in bringing his fellow 44-year-old to Anfield.

Richard Hughes has already advised Liverpool on huge transfers - and tried to appoint their potential next manager

Richard Hughes named Liverpool's new sporting director as start date confirmed

Following his appointment, Hughes said: “I am incredibly proud to be offered this opportunity. Liverpool FC is a unique club and I’m grateful to be given a chance to serve it in this capacity.

“People rightly talk about the rich history this organisation can boast, but it is the present and future which really excites me. Jurgen Klopp is leading an outstanding team and squad and alongside that the commitment to young players and their pathway to the first team is also outstanding.

“I am fully aware of the expectations and responsibilities that come with taking this position. It will be my job, working with Michael [Edwards] and leading the football operations team already in place, plus the wider staff at the AXA Training Centre, to make good decisions.

“That’s really what the job entails: you have to make the kind of good decisions which enhance the prospects of