Bernabeu and Dens are a fair bit apart but Dhanda insists he and Real superstar Trent will always be close

YAN DHANDA is craving a Dundee debut to remember - especially after passing on the Bernabeu to prep for running out at Rugby Park.

- BY NEIL ROBERTSON

When he pitched up at Dens on loan this month, there was one reaction on social media from a lifelong pal which stood out — that of Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The pair of 26-year-olds grew up together, learning their trade in Liverpool's youth academy.

Dhanda left Anfield in 2018 to sign for Swansea, then made his move north to Ross County followed by Hearts.

All while his good mate won everything with the Reds before leaving his boyhood club for the Spanish giants in May.

Their career paths may have diverged but the buddies remain close, with Alexander-Arnold posting “let's go brother” on Instagram when Dhanda swapped Tynecastle for Tayside.

And the midfielder admits that when he gets the chance, he will be jumping on a plane to Spain to see the England ace starring for his new club.

Dhanda, who could make his debut against Kilmarnock today, said: “We're tight mates.