Liverpool have launched work on their new £50m training complex.

The new facility on the site of the current Academy at Kirkby took a major step forward with the breaking ground ceremony to officially start work on the project on Thursday.

Construction will be completed in time for the Reds' senior team to move from Melwood for the start of the 2020-21 season on to the site alongside the current youth set-up.

Liverpool chief Andy Hughes said, “Getting all our training facilities on one site is a critical step.

"Melwood does need upgrading, and this allows us to create world class, state of art facilities.

“It is a big commitment and investment from the owners. If you want to be one of the top European clubs – and stay there – you have to continue to invest. Having one the best training grounds helps deliver success on the pitch.

“We've been talking about this with the ownership group for five years, we have been working on detailed designs and planning for three years. This has always been on the agenda.

“Jurgen Klopp has been involved and the team has been involved, and we have consulted with them. It will look and feel exactly how you'd expect an elite facility for Liverpool Football Club to be.

“This is a critical component of a successful football club. Liverpool Football Club was going to have to make this development."