Alvaro Arbeloa wary of Anfield atmosphere

Real Madrid defender Alvaro Arbeloa has admitted that he is expecting a difficult trip when they are hosted by Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Arbeloa spent two years at Anfield before moving to the Spanish capital in 2009, and the versatile full-back said that he is fully aware of his former side's reputation in Europe's premier competition.

He told reporters: "I've told [my teammates] about the tremendous atmosphere that faces them. It is a special game for Liverpool after five years out the Champions League. Even if Liverpool had lost 10-0 at QPR [on Sunday], I'd still be coming here worried. I know what Liverpool are capable of on a European night.

"It's tough to explain and put into words (playing here). You have to experience it yourself. These are special occasions. It is like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As a player, you need to experience it at least once.

"Even Cristiano Ronaldo has mentioned in the past that this is the most difficult away ground in the Premier League. Liverpool need to win so it will be an important game for them. It's a special day for me. I'm really happy to be back. Anfield atmosphere will work against us. But we have to be focused on it."

Los Blancos are currently top of Group B, while Brendan Rodgers's side are third behind Basel.