What's in Richard Hughes' Liverpool sporting director in-tray - with new manager only the start

Richard Hughes might not officially start as Liverpool’s sporting director until June 1, but there will be plenty waiting for the Scot in his Anfield in-tray.

The 44-year-old was announced as Jorg Schmadtke’s successor on Wednesday, having already confirmed to be leaving his post as first-team technical director at AFC Bournemouth at the end of the season. After Michael Edwards re-joined the club as Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of Football last week, it had been expected that Hughes’ own appointment would soon follow.

“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,” he said following his appointment. “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.

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

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

“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 having a team that wins and excites the supporters. It is what Liverpool have done well for a very long time and the benefits are there for