Julian Ward’s Legacy at Liverpool
Julian Ward has been a key figure in the success of Liverpool Football Club over the last 11 years. He has been instrumental in the signing of some of the club’s most important players, including Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, Fabinho and Fabio Carvalho. He has also been responsible for the successful loan strategy which has seen the club generate significant value from players such as Harry Wilson, Rhian Brewster, Marko Grujic, Neco Williams and Taiwo Awoniyi.
The Signing of Alexis Mac Allister
Ward’s final act for Liverpool was the signing of Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton. The fee for the transfer is reported to be £35 million, with no add-ons. This is a great deal for Liverpool and could prove to be one of the bargains of the summer. Mac Allister is a talented midfielder with the skill, experience and attitude to thrive under Jurgen Klopp.
The Brain Drain Narrative
The departure of Ward from Liverpool has led to speculation that all is not well behind the scenes at Anfield. This has been further fuelled by the subsequent departures of Ian Graham and David Woodfine. However, there has been no big fall out and Ward and Klopp still get on well. The truth is that Ward left due to personal reasons and his leaving do was a happy one.
Conclusion
Julian Ward can look back on his time at Liverpool with pride. He has been instrumental in the signing of some of the club’s most important players and has also been responsible for the successful loan strategy which has seen the club generate significant value from players. His final act for Liverpool was the signing of Alexis Mac Allister, a deal which could prove to be one of the bargains of the summer. His departure from Anfield may have been earlier than expected but he leaves behind a more than decent legacy.