Former Liverpool star previews Champions League final & weighs in on Salah vs Benzema debate

Former Liverpool star Alan Kennedy has been previewing the 2021/22 Champions League final.

Kennedy made over 250 appearances for the Reds between 1978 and 1986, playing a key role in the Merseysiders clinching two European Cups.

The 67-year-old will now get a chance to watch his former side vie for a 7^th European Cup/Champions League on Saturday evening when they face off with Real Madrid.

And, speaking exclusively to 101GreatGoals recently, Kennedy has been previewing the tie:

“I must admit I was really impressed by Real Madrid against Manchester City. I thought they played a really attacking game, put them under pressure, made them make mistakes and consequently they got their reward,” he stated.

“Whether they can do that against Liverpool remains to be seen. But I just love the way Liverpool have been playing, I love the way players have fitted into positions, whether it’s the left-hand side of midfield with Diaz or Mane playing down the middle or Salah coming in, I love the way they work as a team and break teams down.

He continued: “Liverpool is up their right now as one of the best teams we’ve ever seen.

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Elsewhere in his interview with 101, Kennedy spoke about his hope that Mohamed Salah will stay at Liverpool.

When asked for his thoughts on Salah’s contract situation and his rivalry for the Ballon d’Or with Karim Benzema, Kennedy said:

“I obviously want Salah to stay at Liverpool. We need him, but we need him at his best. Some of his performances this season haven’t been up to his very, very high standards.

“Sometimes he doesn’t score or create, and people have a go at him, but I want him to stay as he’s got a lot more than what others can offer.

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“To replace Salah, you’re looking at upwards of £100m pounds and I’m not sure who’s even out there right now who comes close.

“But Karim Benzema, he’s really come alive in this competition. He is what a centre forward should be all about. He’s mobile, gets in the right positions, is strong, quick and Real Madrid plays to his strengths. It’ll be fascinating to see how Virgil Van Dijk, Matip and the rest cope with that threat.

“On the other hand, will be fascinating to see how Madrid’s back line cope with Liverpool’s forward threat. I’m really looking forward to game and expect a 2-1 victory to the red men.”