A combined XI of Real Madrid and Liverpool ahead of the Champions League Final 

Casemiro will look to take the sting out of Liverpool's attack

Defensive Midfielder: Casemiro

Taking his position at the base of a 3-man midfield is the combative Casemiro. The Brazilian has been instrumental in Real's progress to the final with some impressive performances including 2 man-of-the-match awards.

He is averaging a pass success percentage of 91% but it is his defensive credentials which really stand out with 4.1 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game in the UCL this season.

Central Midfielder: Toni Kroos

The German has been one of the best players in the world for some years now and his class continues to be evident. Forming one of the best midfield partnerships in world football with Luka Modric, Kroos has been instrumental in Real Madrid's recent successes including impressing once again in Europe this season.

His ability to win the ball in midfield cannot be scoffed at averaging 1.6 tackles in the Champions League this season. Yet it is his ability to carve out opportunities from midfield and dictate the tempo of the game from midfield that really stands out. He is averaging a pass success rate of 93.7% in the UCL this season

Central Midfielder: James Milner

Best goal provider in the UCL this season

Keeping Modric out of the team is Liverpool's tireless utility man James Milner. Having made the switch back to midfield this season after a stint at left-back, Milner has covered every blade of grass and gone into every tackle with unwavering commitment The 32-year-old has thrived in Jurgen Klopp's gegenpress this season putting in some impressive performances.

He makes this team, however, due to leading the competition in assists this season. In fact, according to UEFA, Milner now holds the record for the most assists in a UEFA Champions League campaign with 9. Not bad for a player not known for his flair.