Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has confirmed that he will celebrate if his side score against Liverpool in Wednesday's Carabao Cup last-16 encounter, despite his strong emotional connection to his former club.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the Spanish manager, who previously represented Liverpool as a player, made it clear that his professional responsibilities at Stamford Bridge now take priority over past loyalties.
"Of course, I will celebrate, that's for sure. With a lot of respect, because obviously I had a lot of affection for Liverpool when I was a player. But now I'm in a different role. I have to support my team.
"I have to support my club. I'm fighting for my club, and if we score, I'll celebrate with all due respect," Alonso was quoted as saying by the Daily Mail.
Alonso enjoyed a successful five-year spell at Liverpool between 2004 and 2009, establishing himself as a key figure in the club's midfield. He was part of the team that famously won the UEFA Champions League in Istanbul in 2005, overcoming a three-goal deficit against AC Milan before triumphing on penalties.
The Spaniard also helped Liverpool lift the FA Cup in 2006 before moving to Real Madrid in 2009.
Wednesday's meeting will therefore carry particular significance for Alonso as he prepares to face a club where he remains a highly respected figure.
The Liverpool-Chelsea encounter is scheduled to kick off at 00:00 Baku time on Thursday, October 29 (23:00 Moscow time on Wednesday).
