Jamie Carragher feels Liverpool's upheaval is "a worry" after two backroom departures were reported on Thursday.

Sporting director Julian Ward is widely reported to have decided to leave his role following the conclusion of the current season, just a year after taking over the position from Michael Edwards.

That was followed by The Athletic's report that Liverpool's director of research, Ian Graham, has also issued his resignation and is serving his notice until May.

It leaves Jurgen Klopp's side with important roles in the club hierarchy to fill in a period where the ownership could also change, with FSG looking to attract new investors by selling a minority stake and potentially willing to discuss a full sale.

Those changes are of concern to Carragher, who identified the important part those figures play in the club's recruitment of new players.

"It's not ideal as when you are talking about recruiting players a person in that role is heavily involved not just for the January window but in the summer too," he told Sky Sports.

"It does feel like a shock. It is a little bit of a worry for Liverpool.

"There seems to be upheaval behind the scenes in terms of the ownership.

"Michael Edwards moved on and Ward came in to replace him and now he's gone.

"It won't be easy to get someone straight away as Liverpool won't be prepared for this. Hopefully, someone fills the role and has as much success as they've had in the past."

Liverpool are in need of a response following the World Cup after a disappointing start to the season, sitting sixth in the Premier League, seven points behind the top four and already 15 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.