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Liverpool FC have appointed Frank McParland to undertake a strategic review of the club's Academy operation, which is based at Kirkby. McParland was Liverpool Chief Scout for three years between 2004-07, before taking up the position of General Manager at Bolton Wanderers. Manager Rafa Benitez explained: "When I signed my new contract, it was agreed I'd have a more significant influence at the Academy and this is an important step in assessing the future direction we will need to take. "I value Frank's opinions and know him well from the time he spent working with me at Melwood. He will liaise closely with the staff at the Academy to produce a comprehensive analysis of the operation there before reporting back to me with his recommendations. "Clearly, we need to move forward quickly, so Frank has already started work and will accompany the Under 18 team tomorrow when they travel to Huddersfield Town." MCPARLAND TO HEAD UP ACADEMY REVIEW Key members of Rafa Benitez's backroom team have today agreed new contracts with the club. Assistant Manager Sammy Lee, First Team Coach Mauricio Pellegrino, Goalkeeping Coach Xavi Valero, Fitness Coach Paco de Miguel and Chief Scout Eduardo Macia have all been given extensions of at least two years on their current deals. The move is part of a phased approach to address the future of the club's backroom staff. Liverpool Manager Rafa Benitez commented: "I said when I signed my own deal recently that it was a priority to sort out the future of the technical staff. "We work extremely well as a team and continuity is essential if we are to build on the progress we have made this season and move the club further forward. I'm delighted we have been able to sort out the contracts." TECHNICAL STAFF AGREE NEW CONTRACTS Pretty much as expected I guess.