Xabi: We need Arsenal style

Xabi Alonso believes Liverpool will have to emulate Arsenal if they are to transfer their European success on to the domestic stage.

The 23-year-old midfielder, signed by Rafael Benitez from Real Sociedad for £10.5m last summer, says Liverpool can change their style of play.

Alonso, whose side finished fifth in the Premiership, said: "We're stronger in Europe than in the Premiership which is difficult to explain. I feel we can beat anyone.

"What is happening at Liverpool is a huge adventure and I was ready for this change in culture. Many teams in England still play the long ball but little by little coaches are placing more emphasis on the pause and the pass, knowing how to vary the pace of the match.

"Arsenal have managed to do it, they have a style. That's what Liverpool are after. If we manage to get to the style Benitez wants, we will be a very difficult team to beat."

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti expects Liverpool to stick to their Italian style 'catenaccio' game for tonight's European Cup Final at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium. Catenaccio, or bolt in English, was patented in Italy, a defensive approach whereby a team defends deeply and tries to score a goal on the counter-attack.