Liverpool’s goalkeeper coach, John Achterberg is set to reunite with Anfield legend Steven Gerrard when he departs the club at the end of the season.
The 52-year-old has been offered a fresh challenge in the Saudi Pro League as part of Gerrard’s coaching team at Al-Ettifaq, The Mirror reports. Achterberg will be leaving the Reds when Jurgen Klopp steps down as manager when the Premier League campaign finishes a week on Sunday.
The Dutchman will take with him a wealth of expertise and experience to his new role, having served Liverpool commendably for the past 15 years. Gerrard had the opportunity to watch Achterberg’s work closely during his time at Anfield.
The former Tranmere keeper has worked on Merseyside since moving to Prenton Park from FC Eindhoven in 1998. He joined Liverpool’s backroom staff under Rafa Benitez in 2009, initially working within the club’s academy.
However, he transitioned into a senior role two years later and has since become a well-liked member of the Anfield staff. Achterberg played a crucial role in identifying current No. 1 Alisson Becker as a potential target before the Brazilian signed from Roma in a £67million deal in 2018.
Last week, Achterberg announced that he would be stepping down alongside Klopp and was open to new opportunities. He stated: “After 15 years at the club, I have decided with a heavy heart to leave LFC. It has been an unbelievable and great journey for me and my family.
“I have loved each day working at this amazing club, but after a long think I feel it could be right for me to start a new challenge. It has been a privilege to work for the biggest and greatest club in world football with its amazing supporters.
