‘Makes Perfect Sense’ – James Pearce Backs Julian Ward for Liverpool Sporting Director Role
Liverpool are continuing their search for a new sporting director following Richard Hughes’ departure, with Julian Ward increasingly emerging as the leading candidate.
Sky Sports’ Lyall Thomas recently reported that Ward is being seriously considered for the position, potentially alongside Brentford technical director Lee Dykes.
However, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has since indicated that Ward is expected to return to Liverpool as sporting director, with the club’s ownership-led search reportedly moving towards its final stages.
Pearce Welcomes Possible Ward Return
Reacting to Ornstein’s update, The Athletic’s James Pearce expressed his support for Ward taking the position, describing the potential appointment as one that would provide much-needed continuity at Liverpool.
Ward previously served as the club’s sporting director during the 2022/23 season after succeeding Michael Edwards. He has spent 13 years working across two spells at Liverpool and remains highly respected within the club.
Pearce highlighted Ward’s strong relationship with FSG president Mike Gordon, who is overseeing the search for Hughes’ replacement. He also pointed to Ward’s extensive experience in transfer negotiations and contract renewals.
Having previously worked as Edwards’ assistant, Ward already understands the demands of the role and would be returning with considerable knowledge of Liverpool’s operations.
Ward Could Bring Stability to Liverpool
Ward’s potential appointment would provide continuity during a period of major change behind the scenes at Anfield, following the departures of Edwards and Hughes as well as 1892 Holdings’ acquisition of a 38% stake in the club.
During his previous spell as sporting director, Ward played a key role in the arrivals of Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez. He also remained at Liverpool beyond his official departure to help complete the signing of Alexis Mac Allister in June 2023.
As Edwards’ assistant, Ward was also heavily involved in the recruitment of Luis Diaz in early 2022.
Gakpo, Nunez, Mac Allister and Diaz all went on to play important roles in Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign under Arne Slot in 2024/25.
With Ornstein suggesting the appointment is now nearing completion, Ward appears to have established himself as the leading candidate to take over the sporting director position.
If the deal is finalised, his return could allow Liverpool to quickly address important contract situations within the squad while also beginning preparations for the club’s 2027 transfer plans.
