Liverpool won’t finish in the top four, says former Reds defender

Liverpool will struggle to finish in the Premier League’s top four this season, according to Steve Nicol.

The Reds appear to be finding their best form after an impressive performance in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea in the first leg of their Capital One Cup semi-final on Tuesday night.

We’re halfway through the season and we’re just beginning to see something

Steve Nicol

Brendan Rodgers’ side are unbeaten in their last eight games in all competitions, including credible wins at Aston Villa and Sunderland in the Premier League.

However, Nicol, who won five top-flight titles during his Liverpool spell. reckons his former club have left themselves too much to do with just under half the season remaining.

“I wouldn’t put any money on Liverpool getting into the top four,” Nicol told talkSPORT.

“If they can keep performing like they did against Chelsea [in the League Cup] then maybe they can.

“That’s a long shot though. We’re halfway through the season and we’re just beginning to see something. You can’t expect to be in the top four if it’s taken you half a season to get back to where they should be.”

Liverpool, who finished as runners-up last season, are in eighth place in the Premier League following their 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday.

The Reds currently trail fourth-placed Manchester United by five points ahead of their next top-flight game against West Ham at Anfield.

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