Ward to quit Kop at end of season

JULIAN WARD will quit as Liverpool’s sporting director at the end of the season.

The news will come as a major blow to the Reds as he prepares to leave after just one campaign in charge.

It is understood that Ward wants a break from football. He had previously worked under Michael Edwards, the former sporting director at the club.

Liverpool bosses are understood to be disappointed but are not concerned he will move to another club.

It is the latest development at Anfield after it was revealed earlier this month that the club’s owners FSG are willing to sell up.

Ward (inset) has been at Liverpool since joining from Manchester City in 2012.

The Reds will now evaluate their options ahead of finding a replacement. Billy Hogan, the CEO who has taken on more responsibility since Mike Gordon stepped back earlier this month, will be involved in the plan to find a successor and review how the sporting set-up operates. Jurgen Klopp will also be part of the process. Ward will continue in his role until the end of the season and will work on current transfer targets, including Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham.