Reds rejoice with short trip to Wales

Holders Liverpool face a short trip to Wales after being drawn against Total Network Solutions in the first qualifying round of the Champions League.

It means the Reds’ season starts in just over a fortnight as the first leg is scheduled for July 12 or 13 at home, with the return played July 19 or 20.

Should Liverpool, as would be expected, overcome TNS they will face the winners of HB Torshavn of the Faroe Islands and FBK Kaunas of Lithuania in the second qualifying round.

Rafael Benitez’s side missed out on a place in the elite club competition after finishing fifth in the Premiership last season but were given special dispensation by UEFA to enter after their stunning victory on penalties over AC Milan in last month’s final in Istanbul.

Today Welsh title-winners TNS hailed their money-spinning Champions League first-qualifying round draw against holders Liverpool.

“This is magnificent news for the club and we’re really looking forward to playing Europe’s elite,” said TNS managing director Mike Harris.

“The downside is it makes life difficult for us to progress, but I’m sure our side will want to give a good account of itself.”

The first leg will be played at Anfield on July 12/13 with the return on July 19/20.