Former Real Madrid defender joins Liverpool scouting set-up

Mark Scott
Jonathan Woodgate: On a mission with Liverpool

Jonathan Woodgate: On a mission with Liverpool

Ex-Real Madrid and England international Jonathan Woodgate has agreed to become a scout for Liverpool, primarily focusing on Spanish talent.

Press Association Sport understands that Woodgate, 36, who retired in the summer ending an 18-year playing career that included stints at Leeds, Newcastle, Real Madrid, Middlesbrough, Tottenham and Stoke, will turn his attention to helping the Reds’ recruitment drive, focusing on continental Europe.

Woodgate spent three years in Madrid from 2004 to 2007 and, having learned the language, is expected to be based in Spain for his new role.

He will also scout in Portugal and may be used by the club to oversee specific targets elsewhere.

Liverpool have brought several players from Spain and Portugal in recent seasons with a modest success rate.

Iago Aspas, Luis Alberto, Joao Carlos Teixeira, Tiago Ilori, Lazar Markovic, Javier Manquillo and Aly Cissokho have all struggled to make an impact at Anfield, though Alberto Moreno remains in the first-team picture.

As someone familiar with football in both territories, Woodgate will be expected to identify players who can flourish under Jurgen Klopp in the Premier League.