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Spanish journalist Guillem Balague told the ECHO that Liverpool FC face a very difficult task when they take on European Champions Real Madrid next month.

The Spanish side famously underestimated the Reds in 2009 when they were beaten 4-0 in a brilliant performance by Rafael Benitez's Liverpool side, but Balague says things have changed drastically for both sides since that night five years ago.

He says that, while Madrid have issues at the moment, losing twice already in La Liga, the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez can do the damage to Brendan Rodgers ' side.

He said: "They are a very strong team, it's going to be a reality check for Liverpool. If you face a Real Madrid, who have their own problems of course, which have players that can sort out a game then it's going to be hard for Liverpool, very hard."

Watch the video above to hear what Balague had to say.

Balague was speaking after giving a lecture to students on behalf of Little League Sports .