I scored the winner for Liverpool v Real Madrid in 1981 European Cup final - I have some advice for Arne Slot

Liverpool are flying high in both the Premier League and the Champions League, topping both tables as things stand.

On Wednesday, Arne Slot’s Reds will be given their hardest test to date as they host the mighty Real Madrid at Anfield.

Liverpool and Real Madrid have faced off on numerous occasions over the years, including in three European Cup and Champions League finals.

The first European Cup final between the two, in 1981, was won by Liverpool, thanks to Alan Kennedy’s 81st-minute winner for Bob Paisley’s side.

Kennedy recently spoke about how Liverpool are shaping up under Slot, and also gave some advice to the Anfield board.

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Alan Kennedy says Liverpool look ‘absolutely terrific’

Kennedy, speaking to Sportsboom earlier this month, said Slot’s Liverpool look like they’ve playing together for years, praising their confidence and quality.

“They look like they’ve been together for years,” he said. “It’s looking very good for this season.

“I do enjoy watching them, they’ve certainly developed into a team that is full of confidence. They certainly know how to play.

“Whether that’s coming from the manager or the players themselves, I just think they’ve absolutely terrific this season. A lot of the fans are very, very happy with the way they’re playing.

“And it’s not just about one particular player, they look a confident team who have been put together.

“Of course there will be slip-ups along the way, there always is, but I just think they’re good enough to win just about every game – and I bet they’re disappointed if they don’t.”

Kennedy’s thoughts on Liverpool stars with uncertain future

Liverpool are currently facing some uncertainty regarding the futures of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

All three are out of contract at the end of the season as things stand, and Kennedy suggested that all three should be retained.

“It’s really important to keep them all,” said Kennedy, who also scored the decisive penalty for Liverpool in the 1984 European Cup final win over Roma.

“You’ve got to have the best players out there, that’s what made Liverpool the top, top team in the 1960s, 70s and 80s.

“I’ve always said you have to have leaders in teams – and I think all three of them have grown into leaders.

“Just look at Mo Salah, he’s been prolific. He’s one of these players that will have lots of offers throughout his career because he’s such a talent.

“You’re going to pay money to see him play, but I just feel like he keeps making the right decisions. It’s all about the way you’re playing and getting results – and that’s something he’s very good at.

“If there’s a goal to get, he’ll be in there fighting for it. But for me he also does his job helping Trent Alexander-Arnold, he helps him on the right-hand side.

“I think it’s working well with the players, there’s no egos for me.”

TBR Football understands that one of the main issues over a new Liverpool deal for Salah would be the length of contract on offer.

However, there are other issues too and, as it stands, a new deal is not close to being agreed.