Reds better than 2005 says Clive

May 23 2007 by Tony Barrett, Liverpool Echo

CLIVE Tyldsley hopes to commentate on yet another Liverpool victory in Europe tonight.

The ITV commentator, who spent several years at Liverpool’s Radio City, is again the man with the mic on the big occasion.

But Tyldsley insists the clash between Liverpool and Milan was too close to call.

"Two years ago Milan were favourites, but it's a far more even call this time.

"Liverpool are better than they were and Milan are older - they might have an edge in experience, but at the end of a long season you wonder if one or two of those legs might start to feel it.

"Maldini is putting off a knee operation to play, but you have to question whether he's the best man for the job considering his age and knee.

"Liverpool will want to see how old and how fit Maldini is - it will be tempting for Rafael Benitez to use some pace up front to do it.

"We became distracted by talk of an all-English final, but all Milan ever wanted was to play Liverpool again.

"The second half turnaround by Liverpool in 2005 was clearly nothing to do with Rafa's half-time teamtalk - it was a complete and utter shambles and he admits he didn't have the English to communicate.

"So the pattern of the game is neither here nor there - someone like Gerrard or Kaka will take hold of the match and win it.

"And if it goes to penalties? Milan will have about two volunteers, they will have to go to the crowd for the others!"