Pundit fears for Liverpool after Edwards exit update from Ornstein
Noel Whelan fears Michael Edwards’ prospective departure from Liverpool could “upset the balance” at Anfield.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds United striker said the 41-year-old’s expertise in the transfer market will be missed by the Reds.
As reported by The Athletic‘s David Ornstein (August 30th), Liverpool’s sporting director is expected to step down from his role at the end of his contract next summer.
Edwards has overseen a hugely successful period at Liverpool since taking over as sporting director in November 2016.
Julian Ward, who currently occupies the role of assistant sporting director, is likely to succeed Edwards if he does follow through with his plans to exit.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his assessment of the news, Whelan said: “Edwards has done so well in the transfer market.
“He’s been brilliant at bringing players in and selling players so naturally his loss would be felt. He has basically built the team along with Jurgen Klopp.
“When you lose somebody who knows the club inside out like he does, it can upset the balance. It is not easy to replace someone who has built up that trust with the manager. It would definitely be a blow if he left.”
Edwards has masterminded the £142million sale of Phillipe Coutinho and the blockbuster signings of Virgil van Dijk and Alisson while at Anfield.
He joined Liverpool in 2011 following a two-year spell at Spurs as an analyst.
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