Liverpool exit done as behind-the-scenes figure makes official announcement
Liverpool have confirmed Dave Fallows will leave his position as director of scouting and recruitment at the end of the year.
Fallows has held the role at Anfield for 12 years and has remained a key figure in the Reds’ football operations but has now decided to step down from his position.
His decision had been delayed with Fallows eager to aid the transition process at Anfield following Jurgen Klopp’s departure and the arrivals of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes in a new-look hierarchy.
“I have been very privileged to work for this incredible football club,” Fallows said to the club’s official website [25 October].
“The fantastic people here starting with the supporters make it so special – to have had the opportunity to work with so many talented players and colleagues past and present who are now friends is something I am very grateful for.
“The leadership here, from ownership, through to Michael [Edwards], Richard [Hughes], Arne [Slot], Billy [Hogan] and Alex [Inglethorpe], is world-class. I have no doubt they will continue to thrive.
“They are supported by great people across many departments who I will miss working with but will continue to stay close to.
“There are far too many to mention but I am especially grateful to Barry Hunter and all those within the recruitment department who have been a joy to work alongside. Leaving in the knowledge that I will be leaving this place in such great shape is something that means a lot to me.
“I look forward to supporting the team from a different perspective now but with the same passion for their success.”
How will Dave Fallows’ departure affect the transfer plan at Liverpool?
The Reds have undergone a period of transition at Anfield over the past 12 months and now must find a new head of recruitment.
Liverpool were heavily criticised throughout the summer for the lack of transfer activity – Federico Chiesa was the only immediate arrival, with Giorgi Mamardashvili joining and swiftly returning to Valencia for the season.
Slot has been a revelation at Anfield this season, with his side leading the Premier League and sitting joint-top of the Champions League league phase alongside Aston Villa after a 100 per cent start in the competition.
However, the overall feeling is the Reds are still one or potentially two world-class additions away from returning to the pinnacle of world football.
There is also the small matter of renewing the contracts of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, who are all in the final year of their deals and currently free to negotiate a move away from Merseyside in January.
Regardless of who replaces Fallows after his 12 years of impeccable service, the contracts of the trio must be addressed first and foremost, then the successor can work to build another dynasty at Anfield.
In other Liverpool news, here’s how Liverpool News expects the Reds to line up against Arsenal.
For more Liverpool women news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.