"It's going to be an honour" - Trent Alexander-Arnold on prospect of facing Cristiano Ronaldo

Trent Alexander-Arnold says he is looking forward to testing himself against Cristiano Ronaldo in Liverpool's upcoming Champions League final with Real Madrid.

The Liverpool youngster has enjoyed a successful breakthrough season at Anfield, with his performances at right-back showing maturation ahead of his years.

However, the 19-year-old will be up against an experienced Ronaldo, who has enjoyed another fantastic season in Europe, with his 15 goals in 12 games proving crucial in getting the Spanish giants to the final in Kiev on May 26.

Whilst Alexander-Arnold admits it will be an honour to play against a star he once adulated, he will be relishing the test the three-time Balon d'Or winner presents.

“With Ronaldo being one of the greats, probably one of the best players ever, it’s going to be an honour to hopefully play against him,” he said.

“You know a lot about him and the likes of (Lionel) Messi because you watch them on YouTube when you’re growing up, you always watch those type of players.

“I want to challenge myself and test myself against the best players in the world and there’s not many people better than the likes of Ronaldo. It will be a huge test for everyone and hopefully we come out on top.”

With the youngster being born-and-bred in Liverpool, he admits he was not the greatest fan of the Portuguese during his time at Manchester United, but he says there's no question of his quality.

“Yeah, I suppose (I was a fan of his), not when he was playing for Man United though,” he said.

“You have to admit he’s an unbelievable player and he’s done exceptional things in the game. The numbers that he does season in, season out are absolutely unbelievable, but come May 26 we’ll be looking to stop him and the rest of Real Madrid.

“You’ve just got to focus on the game and if he’s a direct opponent you have to see what the strengths and weaknesses are and use them to your advantage.”