Xabi Alonso is set to return to Anfield later today as Liverpool prepare to host Bayer Leverkusen in a UEFA Champions League group stage clash.
The Spaniard is held in high regard due to his exploits as a player and is likely to get a warm reception when he takes his place on the touchline today.
Earlier this summer, Alonso rejected the chance to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool as he opted to spend at least another season in Germany to hone his craft.
And the elegant Spaniard has shared how he’ll deal with his emotions if the Kop sing his name at Anfield.
Xabi Alonso makes Anfield admission ahead of Liverpool clash
Alonso spoke highly of Liverpool and Anfield ahead of the game and expects a tough game, with both sides unbeaten in the competition so far.
When asked how he’d deal with his emotions if the Liverpool fans sang his name, Alonso diverted attention from himself, instead opting to talk about his team and how good the Reds have been this season.
“We will see, I will tell you after the game how I feel,” said Alonso at a press conference.
“There will be a moment for everything but the main thing is not me. It’s how we deal with the emotions in this stadium.
“They are in a good moment, one of the best teams in Europe at Anfield is a great challenge – there will be great energy. Let’s see tomorrow and we can talk after the game.”
Leverkusen’s form this season
Alonso’s side haven’t hit the highs of last season and find themselves seven points behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga table.
They are unbeaten in the Champions League, though, with two wins and a draw from three games.
Nonetheless, the game at Anfield promises to be an exciting affair as the two sides look to pip one another to edge closer to the knockout stages.
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