Benfica international director Simao Sabrosa has recalled missing out on a past move to Liverpool.

Benfica and Liverpool meet tonight in the first-leg of the Champions League quarterfinal.

Simao told the Guardian: "I was just thinking about transferring to Liverpool. I remember I was with the National Team and my agent told me to go to his office, because Liverpool had made an offer.

"Scolari [the Portugal coach at the time] gave me permission, but when I arrived at Estádio da Luz they told me that it was impossible, that I was not allowed to board the plane, so I had to stay. I'm happy, but the dream of all players is to play in the Premier League.

"Still, I'm lucky because I played for big clubs. I spent six years at Benfica, my team, and played against big clubs. Although I didn't play in the Premier League, I scored goals against Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea."