Last night saw both Liverpool and Arsenal return to European football in the second leg ties of their Champions League qualifiers. Arsenal were at home to FC Twente and Liverpool played host to Standard Liege.

Rafa had said before the Liverpool game that Liege were the hardest draw Liverpool had ever gotten in the qualifying stages. They did give Liverpool a fright in the first leg, missing a good few chances and even missing a penalty, but anyone could see that was their chance gone. Liverpool are way to experienced and ran out 1-0 winners last night, all be it after extra time.

Arsenal on the other hand had a 2-0 lead over their Dutch counterparts last night and after a slow enough start won 4-0 on the night making it a very comfortable 6-0 victory. Arsenal needed a good performance after the disaster against Fulham on Saturday when their midfield was totally out played. Fabrigas was back last night but one man can’t turn a whole team around - I was worried I have to admit. In the end Twente had nothing to offer and it was a bit of a one sided event. It won’t be so on Saturday against a Newcastle side who have started the season very well. I’m very nervous again - our midfield still hasn’t recovered from the loss of Flamini, Helb and Gilberto and the new recruits are still too young. Tough times ahead I fear.

The draw for the Champions League will take place today at 5pm in Monaco, here’s hoping for a bit of luck.

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UPDATE:

Champions League Groups: