The China Mail - Alexander-Arnold 'never felt so loved' as Liverpool star says farewell

Alexander-Arnold said an emotional farewell after coming on for the second half of the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace in Liverpool's last game of the season.

Unlike his last home appearance, when he was booed after announcing he was leaving at the end of his contract, the Liverpool-born star was warmly welcomed by fans.

When the Premier League trophy was presented after the game, Liverpool fans saluted the academy graduate, who is ending a 20-year association with the club ahead of an widely-expected move to Real Madrid.

Alexander-Arnold waved to the crowd and kissed the badge on his shirt, with supporters in the famous Kop stand roaring their approval when he hoisted the trophy in front of them.

"I didn't know what to expect stepping out at Anfield after what had happened a few weeks ago," he told Sky Sports.

"I wanted to play for the club one more time and (Liverpool manager) Arne Slot trusted me to play. To get the reception I got means more than anything.

"I've played hundreds of games for the club but I've never felt so loved and cared for than today.

"Hand on my heart I hope one day the fans will be able to recognise the hard work and everything I have done for the team.

"There wasn't a day, minute, second that I didn't think about the team. Twenty years is a very long time but I've loved every single minute of it. The ups and the downs.

"It's been an honour and privilege to be part of. I'll remember this day. It's very special for me. It goes down as the best day of my life."

X.So--ThChM