Liverpool academy chief Alex Inglethorpe is confident of a smooth transition as Julian Ward departs.

The sporting director has tendered his resignation.

Inglethorpe has worked closely with Ward throughout his time at Liverpool, particularly when the sporting director - who will depart at the end of the season - was loan pathways and football partnerships manager.

But despite the air of uncertainty surrounding the Reds at present, Inglethorpe told the Liverpool Echo: "It's business as usual because I'll be able to enjoy Julian's company for the rest of the time that he's here, just as I have the 10 years he has been here. He is hugely talented.

"Of course, anybody that talented will be a loss when they leave. But whether it's been Michael Edwards who has left or Julian, the club and the thinking will remain consistent. The way we would want to go about our work will be consistent after Julian leaves."