Liverpool hero John Barnes is backing Xabi Alonso to succeed Jurgen Klopp.

The Bayer Leverkusen coach is favourite to replace Klopp when he steps down as Liverpool manager this summer.

Barnes told BonusCodeBets: “Of course it will be tough for Alonso to take over from Klopp but he's not setting himself up to fail at all because Liverpool are in a very healthy state with the young players they have.

“Look at the age and the profile of the players. The characters. If you have ambition that can't scare you. Successful managers are always a difficult act to follow. Look at Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger.

“If you have faith in your ability and a good squad, with good characters you have a great chance."