Daniel Sturridge names two 'amazing' Liverpool figures who will ease Arne Slot 'transition'

Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge believes the club is in safe hands despite Jurgen Klopp's exit. Arne Slot officially started his contract as the Reds' new head coach on Saturday with focus now shifting to a new era at Anfield.

Liverpool's players are not set to reconvene for another month with Slot, alongside new sporting director Richard Hughes, making some key decisions in the transfer market before then.

It is a summer of big change for Liverpool and its FSG owners, who has completely restructured its football department. Michael Edwards has returned as CEO of Football while Julian Ward, his replacement at Anfield, has also been brought back into the fold.

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Their duties will stretch beyond what is happening on Merseyside but the priority will be on ensuring Slot is given all the tools he needs to ensure a smooth transition. And Sturridge says the presence of Edwards, alongside FSG president Mike Edwards, is reason for optimism.

Speaking about Klopp's departure, the ex-striker told The Times: "He did unbelievable things. I don’t think those were the expectations when he arrived. The relationship he had with people was magnificent.

"He’s going to be remembered as arguably the greatest Liverpool manager. Now the club is in a transitional period. New manager, players coming out of contract — it’s just that kind of time.

"But the backroom team is amazing. I know the Mikes [Gordon and Edwards] well. I’m sure they’ve analyzed the manager they’ve brought in and will know his style marries well with the current squad, and will have their eyes on players they want to sign too. I don’t have any concerns Liverpool will slip away.”

Edwards is set to replace Gordon in the day-to-day running of FSG's football operations. Liverpool will therefore fall under his remit while plans are afoot to acquire another club to add to the sporting portfolio.

Liverpool.com says: The Arne Slot era is officially underway and while pre-season doesn't start for another month, there is likely to be plenty going on at Liverpool before then. Edwards will have a big role to play after returning to the fold and he has shown just how successful and efficient he can be in the past. Liverpool must now look to the future though and like Sturridge says, it promises to be a bright one.