Arsenal’s head of medical services, Gary O’Driscoll rejects Liverpool offer

According to the Athletic (h/t Football.London), Arsenal’s head of sports medicine Gary O’Driscoll has decided against a move to Liverpool and has opted to remain at the Emirates.

The reputed doctor was set to replace Andrew Massey, who left the club to join FIFA as its director of medical. Initially thought to be a done deal, O’Driscoll has apparently had a change of heart and has chosen to extend his 11-year association with the Gunners.

The news will come as a setback for the Reds, who will now have to look elsewhere to fill a key backroom position.

Gary O'Driscoll — Gary O’Driscoll has been Arsenal since the time of Arsene Wenger

According to the report, O’Driscoll opted to remain at Arsenal for personal and professional reasons.

He is said to have been flattered by Liverpool’s interest, but his family was keen to remain in London. He is also believed to be excited by the direction the Gunners are heading in under the stewardship of Mikel Arteta.

The North Londoners were resigned to losing the doctor and had even advertised for his replacement. With him choosing to stay now, it will be the Reds who will have to look elsewhere.

O’Driscoll is said to be excited to work alongside Mikel Arteta (Image Credit: Getty Images)

Driscoll has been at Arsenal since 2009 and is one of the old guards who has survived various culls. He has held leadership positions with the British Lions and Ireland rugby team.

The ability to hold on to such a reputed figure in spite of considerable attention from the reigning European Champions can be seen as a coup for the Gunners.

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O’Driscoll is among the figures leading Arsenal’s response to the coronavirus crisis. The Gunners closed their training ground on Thursday night after the revelation that Mikel Arteta has been infected. It remains to be seen who Liverpool will now turn to in order to replace Massey.