Real Madrid's Owen: I'll let Liverpool into Leverkusen secrets

Real Madrid striker Michael Owen intends to pass on some secrets about Bayer Leverkuson to old club Liverpool to help them in their Champions League quarterfinal.

Owen's Real faced Bayer in the group phase and the ex-Reds star said: "I don't mind being a spy."

"It's a difficult draw for Liverpool. Of the smaller teams without the glamour reputation, I'd say Leverkusen were one of the most difficult - especially on their own patch."

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is delighted with the Bayer pairing: "Beforehand, it was not a question of me saying who I'd prefer. Maybe I would tell my wife but not you!"

"But now I can say it is better to play a German team than an Italian one - and we do have a chance."

"Perhaps if it had been an Italian side it would have been harder because they are so well organised."

"I prefer German teams, not because they are any worse, but because it is more difficult to play against the others."