Liverpool FC — Xabi Alonso on Anfield return: ‘I loved it – it’s pure football’

“I loved it,” Alonso told Liverpoolfc.com post-match. “I loved it after some time without playing these kind of games. 

“You still know that you feel it, you have it inside and whenever you have the chance it awakens [you]. 

“I really loved it and a great cause, great atmosphere, best stadium in the world. Great day. 

“[Anfield is] different. You have pretty stadiums all over the world, great atmospheres, Champions League nights – but this is Anfield. 

“The soul, the stands, the lights, it’s different and it’s pure football. That’s why we love it as a player, as a fan, as anyone that comes.”

Alonso once again treated Liverpool supporters to a dazzling performance, displaying the incredible range of passing he still possesses throughout the afternoon. 

He continued: “That doesn’t change – many things change, the legs change, the strength changes. But once you have that understanding after playing so many years, it is still there. 

“As long as I can enjoy and I can play here, I will love to come back.”