Xabi Alonso has revealed his desire to manage Liverpool in the future, a team he played for in five successful seasons in which he won both the Champions League and FA Cup, before moving on to Real Madrid in 2009.

The 36-year-old retired from professional football at the end of last season and now harbours ambitions of moving into management.

When asked if he has ever dreamt of taking charge of Liverpool at Anfield, Alonso told Guillem Balague: "Yes for sure, I have dreamt of that, but first I have to prove myself and prepare.

"If I decide somewhere along the way to take my chances as a manager, my link, my commitment, my passion with Liverpool is there.

"Why not? We will see if we can cross paths in our ways."