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Malcom Elias, a former Liverpool head of academy, has passed away at the age of 71 after a short illness(Image: Fulham FC)

Malcolm Elias, a highly-respected former Liverpool academy director who played a role in the development of Trent Alexander-Arnold, has died at the age of 71 after a short illness.

The Welshman spent three years as head of academy with the Reds before leaving for Fulham in 2009.

He has spent the last 16 years with the Cottagers where he served as their head of academy recruitment.



During his time at Craven Cottage, he also spotted and aided the development of Harvey Elliott, who made his debut as the Premier League's youngest ever player prior to his move to Anfield.

Elliott has paid tribute to Elias on Instagram following his passing, writing on his Instagram story: “A true legend!

RIP Mal” along with a heart emoji when sharing Fulham’s post confirming his death.

Elias previously worked for Southampton for six years before his own switch to Liverpool.

Mary’s, he worked with a wealth of homegrown talent which included Adam Lallana, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Gareth Bale.

Fulham confirmed Elias’ passing in a statement on their website as they offered their condolences to his family.

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It read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague and dear friend, Malcolm Elias, after a short illness.

“The Club’s Head of Academy Recruitment, Malcolm had a fantastic reputation in football for unearthing and nurturing young talent.

“A proud Welshman, Malcolm was approaching his 16th anniversary at Craven Cottage this summer, having joined us from Liverpool in July 2009, while he also previously enjoyed a highly successful spell at Southampton alongside future Fulham colleagues Huw Jennings and Steve Wigley.

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“The influence that Malcolm had on the modern game cannot be understated, having worked with and developed the likes of Theo Walcott, Gareth Bale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harvey Elliott, Luke Harris and Jay Stansfield, to name but a few.

“A hugely popular figure around the training ground, Malcolm will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Paula - Malcolm's ever devoted and endlessly supportive wife of nearly 50 years - his sons Andrew and Daniel, his six beloved grandchildren, as well as his additional family and friends.”