Two-and-a-half years ago, Julian Ward's job didn't exist.
A move to Liverpool from Manchester City in October 2012 was brought about so Ward could work within the Reds’ recruitment and scouting team.
“Then, in around September 2015, we realised that there was this bridge that we had to create to help players make the step from U23s football to Melwood and first-team football…” the 36-year-old tells Liverpoolfc.com.
Consequently, a new position was created: loan pathways and football partnerships manager.
It’s a role Ward was asked to take on and remains in to this day.
“I became responsible for making partnerships and networks with clubs around England and Europe,” he explains, during a recent conversation at Melwood.