Arne Slot vs. Xabi Alonso had the makings of an epic battle. In the end it was the Liverpool coach who cruised to victory against the man many believed was destined to take over at Anfield this season.

Liverpool meet Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday with Xabi Alonso returning to Anfield with his defending Bundesliga kings. The Spanish tactician enjoyed a five-year spell on Merseyside as a player which included the heroic 2005 UCL triumph.

Xabi Alonso is back at Anfield. Join Rob Smyth for updates from a mouthwatering encounter. GOAL! Liverpool 3-0 Leverkusen (Diaz 83) 21:42 It’s now officially a hammering.   21:41 81 min: Double substitution for Leverkusen Patrick Schick,