Liverpool have officially confirmed that Michael Beale has returned to Liverpool FC's Academy setup in the role of head of coaching for the foundation phase.

Beale recommended former Golden Eaglets trainee Ovie Ejaria to Liverpool after he did not sign scholarship forms with Arsenal in 2014, and the midfielder agreed to join The Reds despite being courted by the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea due to his relationship with the coach.

Michael Beale told Liverpool's official webpage : ''It’s fantastic to be back and it feels like I haven’t left the place. It just feels like I’m back home at a special place with a lot of good friends and I hope to play a small part in what we are trying to do.

''I never really cut the cord because I was always in touch with the staff, the players and watching our games when I was living out in Brazil.

''I’ve got lots and lots of good friends here in Kirkby and at Melwood as well, so it’s lovely to be home.''

Beale's new job description includes working with the U5 to U11 age groups, and aiding Academy director Alex Inglethorpe and the head of Academy football operations, Nick Marshall co-ordinate the progress of the U16-23 and U12-15 teams.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : liverpoolfc.com