Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has warned Trent Alexander-Arnold to expect a tough reception when he returns to Anfield as they plan to "make it very difficult" for the England right-back. Arne Slot's team are set to face Real Madrid in the Champions League, with Alexander-Arnold likely to be on the bench for the Spanish giants.

The full-back, who made 353 appearances for Liverpool after joining as a youngster, was booed by fans following his announcement that he would be leaving Anfield before the end of last season. If he steps onto the pitch against Slot's side, it's unlikely to be a warm welcome for the academy graduate, despite his impressive record of winning a Champions League, two Premier Leagues, an FA Cup and a League Cup with Liverpool.

Van Dijk, his former captain, believes there will be little sentimentality if he ends up facing off against Alexander-Arnold.

He said: "I think Trent is a quality player. He showed it so many times. He's a very gifted player and he was important for us over all those years. I was very happy to have him...