Julian Ward's time as Liverpool sporting director will be remembered as short but sweet once he leaves the post next summer.
The Anfield chief only made the step up from deputy sporting director upon Michael Edwards' exit earlier this year but is already preparing to leave after one season in the main role. Ward's desire to take a break from football left the club's hierarchy disappointed but this is understandable after a decade of stellar service in a variety of roles on Merseyside.
After being lined up as Edwards' successor, Ward played a pivotal role as Liverpool sprung a surprise in the January transfer window earlier this year. Out of the blue, the Reds struck a deal to sign Luis Diaz from Porto for a fee which could rise to £50million.
