Liverpool have been one of the smarter clubs in the Premier League in terms of recruitment over the last decade and their eye for talent has been a key reason behind the team’s success under former manager Jurgen Klopp.
A new structure took charge of the club towards the end of last season under the tutelage of the new CEO of football, Michael Edwards, and new sporting director Richard Hughes
The new transfer gurus came under pressure for their lacklustre performance last summer but the team’s start to the season has eased the criticism on Edwards and Hughes.
However, ahead of the January transfer window, Liverpool are set to lose a key man behind the scenes from their recruitment team, which could affect their plans going forward.
Liverpool have announced that director of scouting and recruitment Dave Fallows will leave the club before the end of the year.
The man who found Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah
Fallows has been at Liverpool for 12 years and was promoted to his current role in 2014 as he took more responsibility in the club’s recruitment team.
He was a key part of the transfer committee under then sporting director Edwards and former manager Klopp and played a big role in the success the club achieved in the following years.
The 64-year-old played a big role in identifying the key pillars of success – Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Alisson Becker – in his role.
Edwards said in a statement published on the club’s website: “Dave has been a trusted colleague for over 10 years and a close friend for two decades.
“I respect his decision and wish him nothing but success with whatever he does next. He and his family will always be welcome at our club after the contribution he has made. We will miss him.”
Hughes said: “David’s reputation is second to none in his field and his achievements at the club mean he leaves with utmost gratitude and affection,” he said.
“It speaks volumes about Dave that he remained with us to help with the transition and settling-in of a new football leadership team, including myself. I will always be grateful for his advice and assistance during this period.”
Liverpool will hope to bring in a replacement for him as soon as possible and avoid any upheaval in their transfer plans ahead of a key January window.
