Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso expressed sympathy for Middlesbrough counterpart Michael Carrick ahead of their upcoming encounter, but insisted his side would not hold back on the pitch.
Carrick has faced mounting pressure following a string of poor results for the Championship side, with the former Manchester United midfielder's position under scrutiny.
"I have sympathy for Michael, it's not easy when results don't go your way," Alonso said. "But we are professionals, we prepare to win. The Blues will show no mercy."
The fixture pits the Bundesliga champions against the English second-tier club in what appears to be a competitive or friendly meeting. Leverkusen aim to maintain their strong form under Alonso, who has guided the team to domestic and European success.
