Arnold sums up Liverpool feelings in one word before Real Madrid clash

Trent Alexander-Arnold could face Liverpool for the first time since his summer move to Real Madrid and the full-back has sent a message ahead of his Anfield return.

Trent Alexander-Arnold has delivered a heartfelt message as he prepares to face Liverpool for the first time since his departure, ahead of Tuesday night's Champions League encounter between the Reds and Real Madrid.

The right-back made the switch from Liverpool to the Bernabeu last summer when his Anfield contract expired. The Reds secured a transfer fee as Real paid to finalise the deal before the summer's Club World Cup.

Throughout his final campaign at the club, where he contributed to Liverpool's Premier League triumph, rumours surrounding Alexander-Arnold's future were constant. Following the official announcement of his departure in May, he was met with jeers from sections of the home crowd when he came on as a substitute against Arsenal.

A warmer welcome came when Liverpool celebrated their Premier League success against Crystal Palace later that month in what was his farewell appearance for the club. Tonight's homecoming could prove more hostile.

Before the match, the 27-year-old has shared his emotions through a simple Instagram story post. The defender uploaded a picture of himself touching down in England with the Madrid squad, accompanied by the caption: "Home" alongside a location pin emoji.

The ex-Liverpool star's season has so far been hampered by a hamstring problem. The injury means his most recent outing for Madrid dates back to September.

He has, though, been named among the substitutes for the previous two La Liga fixtures. "Whichever way I'm received is the decision of the fans. I'll always love the club, I'll always be a fan of the club," he said ahead of the match.

"I'll always be thankful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together, they'll live with me forever. No matter what, my feelings won't change towards Liverpool. I've got memories there that will last me a lifetime, and no matter how I'm received, that won't change.

"It's mixed emotions. It will be a very, very difficult game, but one that I'm excited for. A huge game and a huge stage to go and try to perform.

"It will be a big difference walking into the away changing room, warming up on the other side, everything will feel a lot different to me."

Alexander-Arnold came up through the youth teams at Liverpool. He made his first team debut in 2016 and went on to play 354 times for Liverpool, before moving away from the club in the summer.