Lamps: I respect Alonso

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard is ready to put animosity aside when he takes on Liverpool's Xabi Alonso.

The two midfielders have never been the best of friends on the pitch since Alonso had his leg broken by Lampard back in 2005.

Lampard also got himself red-carded for a tackle on Alonso at Anfield earlier this season in the league and the pair are set to clash when the two sides meet in the Champions League this week.

Speaking to News of the World, Lamps feels the rivalry between him and Alonso has been taken out of context.

"It's always a good battle between Alonso and me. We've had our moments but there's a lot of respect,

"I spoke to him after the Spain game because of the red card I got before and cleared the air a bit.

"Look, there are a lot more important things in the world than things in football and you shouldn't have petty arguments off the pitch."

Wednesday's encounter will be the fifth consecutive season the two English giants have been drawn against each other in Europe and Lampard knows the Champions League is probably their best chance of silverware this season.

"It's a huge game. We've played it many times before. It is like Groundhog Day. It probably is our best hope," he added.

"I will never give up on the league, but the Champions League is huge for us - especially after going so close last season."