Jurgen Klopp has welcomed Liverpool’s decision to install a sporting director after Michael Edwards’ appointment yesterday.

Edwards has been promoted from technical director to sporting director at Anfield as part of a restructuring of the club’s football operation and will take the lead role on future transfer negotiations.

Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool’s owner, has been impressed by Edwards’ impact on player recruitment at all levels of the club from the academy to development squad to the first team.

And Klopp has backed Edwards’ appointment.

“This decision is hugely positive for us,” the Liverpool manager said. “It will make us better and stronger in managing the process of building and retaining playing talent at all age groups. Development is so important and it makes sense to have a position, within the football structure specifically, that focuses on where we can improve.”