Xabi Alonso says he can understand why Sami Hyypia is leaving Liverpool for Bayer Leverkusen.

"I understand why Sami is leaving," Alonso told LFC Magazine.

"Sami has got a competitive mind. He wants to be involved and be part of the first XI wherever he is. He will probably have more chance of playing regularly at Bayer Leverkusen.

"Saying that, I could have seen him remaining with us too. But it is his decision and we have to respect it.

"As long as he is happy with his decision I am happy for him."

Alonso is confident Hyypia will be a big success in the Bundesliga, adding: "Whenever he has played this season he has done very well.

"Whenever he was needed he was there. His level of performance has always been very good. That is what you can expect from a model professional, as Sami is.

"I can see him playing very well in Germany. I'm sure he will do very well there. We will have to keep an eye on Bayern Leverkusen's results next season."