"I am very relieved that we avoided Everton. They have a good team and I would not have wanted to face them or my fellow Spaniard Mikel Arteta so early on in the season," said Alonso.
"I actually feel sorry for Everton in drawing Villarreal. It is going to be very difficult for them to go through now because they are a very strong Spanish team, with a lot of experience. I know that Villarreal's players are very confident that they will do great work in the Champions League this season.
"The best team will prevail in that tie, but from Everton's point of view I think they need to take close care of Juan Román Riquelme. If he is allowed to play with freedom, Villarreal will create many opportunities to score. And with players like Diego Forlán and José Mari in their side, you can't affordto give them chances. Stopping Riquelme is going to be the key to success for Everton."