Slot insists Trent Alexander Arnold deserves praise for his 'remarkable' Liverpool highlights

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has stated that he will offer Trent Alexander Arnold a friendly greeting when Real Madrid arrives at Anfield on Tuesday, despite the possibility of a cool response from the fans who once supported him wholeheartedly.

The England star, who grew up idolising the Reds, allowed his deal to expire before moving to the Spanish club in June for a minimal transfer amount.

At 27 years old, he was instrumental in elevating Liverpool back to dominance in English and European football alongside Jurgen Klopp and Slot, securing two Premier League crowns and the Champions League trophy.

"I cherish wonderful recollections of the athlete and the individual," Slot remarked, having claimed the Premier League in his sole year collaborating with Alexander Arnold.

"My experiences partnering with him were exclusively uplifting, and those from observing him on screen were similarly favourable.

"Numerous standout instances come to mind of him donning the Liverpool kit."

The Dutch coach informed journalists on Monday: "He will receive a cordial reception from me. We should first observe if he features on the field tomorrow, and gauge the supporters reaction."

The England player faced jeers from Liverpool supporters occasionally in his last months there, as his impending exit loomed.

Liverpool has keenly felt his absence during a challenging beginning to Slot's second campaign, suffering six losses in their previous eight matches.

Nevertheless, the Spanish adventure has not yet panned out for Alexander Arnold, plagued by a hamstring problem and often relegated to substitute status.

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso is anticipated to persist with Federico Valverde in the right back position from the outset of Tuesday's marquee Champions League encounter.

Nearly a year prior, Liverpool triumphed 2-0 over the 15 time European winners at this tournament stage.

That said, Madrid approaches Merseyside in superior shape on this occasion, boasting French forward Kylian Mbappe in exceptional condition.

Los Blancos lead Barcelona by five points atop La Liga and maintain an unblemished record of three victories in three league phase outings in the Champions League.

"They remain a formidable presence in this tournament," Slot noted. "An excellent squad, yet we too possess great quality."

Slot verified that Alisson Becker, Alexander Isak, and Jeremie Frimpong remain sidelined by injuries, though solely Isak might recover in time to play Manchester City in the Premier League this Sunday.