Xabi Alonso has been backed for the Liverpool job(Image: Getty Images)

Michael Owen has backed Xabi Alonso to be named Liverpool manager, but only if Arne Slot fails to secure Champions League football.

Slot’s position is under intense scrutiny as last season’s Premier League winners have endured a terrible title defence. The Reds currently sit 5th in the table – 21 points behind league leaders Arsenal – and that gap will likely become a yawning chasm by the end of the season.

Pressure on the Dutchman has been turned up even more by the availability of Alonso after he was sacked by Real Madrid earlier this season. The Spaniard was the favourite to be named Anfield boss before Slot was appointed, but he rejected the chance to return to his former club.

Arne Slot's job is under pressure at Liverpool(Image: Will Cooper/Shutterstock)

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But now without a job and his dream move to Real Madrid ending in tatters, it appears likely that Alonso will be more open to the Liverpool...