Liverpool have appointed former Middlesbrough defender Jonathan Woodgate as a scout, according to Sky sources.

The 36-year-old former central defender retired from professional football earlier this summer after being released by Boro.

Sky sources understand that Woodgate will be primarily scouting for the Reds in Spain and Portugal.

The former England international spent three seasons with Real Madrid after joining the club in a £13.4m deal from Newcastle in 2004.

However, his time with the Spanish giants was blighted by injury and he managed to make just 14 senior appearances for Madrid before returning to the North East with Boro.

Liverpool have consistently signed youth players from Spain and Portugal since former boss Rafa Benitez arrived at the club in 2004.

Earlier this week, the Reds signed former Barcelona defender Juanma Garcia following a successful trial at the club.

The 19-year-old Spaniard will join up with compatriots Pedro Chirivella and Madger Gomes in Liverpool's youth setup.

Source: Sky Sports

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