Liverpool announced the appointment of Richard Hughes as their new sporting director on Wednesday, with the Bournemouth technical director starting in the role at the end of this season.

Hughes' arrival at the club follows Michael Edwards joining Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool's American owners, in a new role of CEO of football as the holding company looks to explore becoming a multi-club model.

"I am incredibly proud to be offered this opportunity," Hughes said in a Liverpool press release. "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."

Edwards added: "I'm delighted Richard has agreed to join us in this vitally important position.

"I've known him for half of my life in a professional and personal capacity and he is absolutely someone who embodies the best values of Liverpool FC. I trust him completely."

Hughes and Edwards will be tasked with continuing Liverpool's recent success after Klopp's imminent departure, with the German coach having announced in January his decision to leave the Merseyside club at the end of the season after nearly nine years at the club.