Liverpool have announced that chief operating officer Ian Ayre will leave Anfield in 2017.

Ayre first arrived at the club in 2007 when he became a commercial director, but he has indicated his intention to depart the Merseyside giants when his contract expires in 15 months' time.

In a statement on the club's official website, he said: "If becoming chief executive of Liverpool Football Club was the greatest honour of my professional life, then deciding to step down at the end of my current contract is by far the most difficult.

"Having the privilege to lead this great club comes with huge responsibility and challenge but one which I have relished and I feel proud of my achievements in the role. I believe the end of next season is the right time to pass the CEO baton on to a new person, who will take on the challenges and opportunities with a fresh enthusiasm and vigour. They will do so supported by what I believe to be the best ownership group in world sport and by a truly excellent team of staff throughout the football club.

"Having been brought up in the shadow of Anfield, I have found it the most profound privilege to serve the club I have supported all my life. The driving principle behind every decision I have taken during my time here has been to do the best for the long-term stability and health of this great football club. In the remaining 15 months I have as CEO, I will continue to provide FSG, Jurgen [Klopp], the players and all the brilliant staff at Liverpool ongoing strategic leadership and a smooth transition."

Liverpool currently sit in eighth position in the Premier League table, but they could find themselves in the top six should they emerge victorious in their extra fixtures.