Liverpool's Spanish contingent have warned their team-mates not to expect an easy ride against Real Betis in the UEFA Champions League.

Rafa Benitez's European Cup holders travel to Betis on Tuesday, to play a side who have never previously qualified for Europe's premier club competition.

Despite their lack of Champions League experience, Liverpool's Spanish full back Josemi believes Betis will prove a tough side to beat.

"We all know a lot about Betis,'' said Josemi. ''They are an excellent team and they will make it hard for us.

''But everyone we face now will be even more determined to beat us.

"We are the European champions, we are a big target. We know that and we will be ready to match anyone we face.

"Betis is not an easy place to go and play football. They are excellent going forward.

''In Joaquin they have one of the most dangerous attackers in the whole of Spain.

''He has lots of speed and is very direct, and he provides great service for the other forwards and is one of the players we will have to watch closely.

"They have lots of options in attack but I do think they are vulnerable at the back and I see no reason why we cannot get our campaign off to the best possible start."

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso has echoed the words of his team-mate but is confident the right result can be delivered on his return to Spain.

The cultured schemer believes fit-again Peter Crouch could prove to be the game's most instrumental player - with the striker's height sure to trouble Betis' backline.

"Crouch is not only a big target man he also has good quality on the ball,'' said Alonso.

"He can head the ball, keep possession and give the team time to get forward. And he is intelligent as a player.

"He will make it difficult for the Betis defenders, their central defenders are all under 6ft tall. It will be difficult for them against him."

 

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