Michael Edwards to leave Liverpool position next year

Liverpool sporting director Michael Edwards has revealed that he will step down from his current role at Anfield next year.

The 42-year-old, who will be replaced by deputy sporting director Julian Ward, made the move to the Reds in November 2011 and has played a leading role in their recruitment in recent years.

In an open letter to Liverpool supporters, Edwards confirmed that he is leaving the club in the summer of 2022 for pastures new, although it is understood that he is not making the move to Newcastle United despite the recent speculation.

"Ten years - that's a pretty long time in anyone's working life. In football terms it is an era in itself, particularly at a club like Liverpool where the expectations and standards are never anything other than as high as the supporters deserve," read the letter.

"To be part of this club during this period has been a privilege due to the people I have been fortunate enough to work with and the success we have enjoyed. But all good things must come to an end and, in my case, I recently completed my final summer window as Liverpool sporting director.

"Even writing those words seems a bit surreal, but at the end of this season I will pack up my laptop and leave my office at the AXA Training Centre for the last time.

"I had always planned to cap my time at the club to a maximum of 10 years. I've loved working here, but I am a big believer in change. I think it's good for the individual and, in a work setting, good for the employer too.

"Over my time here we have changed so many things (hopefully for the better) but someone new brings a different perspective, new ideas and can hopefully build on (or change) the things that have been put in place beforehand.

"That's how I believe businesses/football clubs stay ahead; you need to evolve and at the heart of this kind of process is always people. That evolution has always been central to Liverpool's history and I hope that this is one thing that doesn't change."

Liverpool's owners are believed to have made a number of attempts to convince Edwards to extend his contract with the Merseyside giants.