Job Title: Goalkeeping Coach

Date of Birth: 28^th February 1973

Birthplace: Castellon - Spain

Nationality: Spanish

Joined: Since 2007

 

Xavi Valero is responsible for coaching first-team goalkeepers at Melwood.

Although Rafa Benitez likes his 'keepers to work alongside outfield players in training, Xavi also carries out specialised sessions with each of the club's stoppers.

Aside from this, the Spaniard provides Pepe Reina and co with information about opposition strikers.

This side of his job isn't confined to the custodians, however. Fernando Torres has attributed much of his success in beating goalies in England to the information given to him by the club's goalkeeping coach.

Xavi took over the post when Jose Ochotorena moved back to Valencia in 2007.

He began his professional career as a goalkeeper with Castellon in 1992 before moving on to Mallorca, Logrones, Murcia, Cordoba and Recreativo de Huelva.

Xavi gained a Masters in goalkeeper coaching from the Spanish Football Federation and a Masters in sports psychology from Madrid University. From there he worked with Ochotorena at Logrones.

He said: "I am proud and pleased to be part of the fantastic backroom staff at Liverpool FC and to be continuing the excellent work that Ocho set up here. I remember playing for a short time in the UK and I think Liverpool has the most exciting future. I am delighted to be here."