Jason McAteer: Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool can finish in top four

"Top four is realistic for @LFC" Former Red @MCATEER4 does not think Klopp's side are realistic title contenders. https://t.co/BeNypiTcgE

— Fletch And Sav (@FletchAndSav) January 2, 2016

Jason McAteer believes a top-four finish remains a realistic target for Liverpool this season.

The Hammers eased into a first-half lead courtesy of Michail Antonio’s header after the Reds made a sluggish start to Saturday’s early kick-off at Upton Park.

Liverpool’s club-record signing Andy Carroll came back to haunt the Merseyside outfit after the towering striker netted a second for the hosts in the 55th minute.

And the Reds were unable to mount a comeback as Klopp’s side suffered their third defeat in four Premier League games on the road.

However, speaking ahead of the Upton Park clash, former Liverpool midfielder McAteer explained what Klopp should be aiming to achieve in his first season at Anfield.

“Champions League places is more realistic than going to win it. I don’t think they’re at full speed. They’re a work in progress, they’re not quite there yet.”

Klopp replaced Northern Irishman Brendan Rodgers at the Merseyside club in October following a goalless draw with Everton at Goodison Park in the derby.

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The Reds have only won five of their 12 Premier League games under the former Borussia Dortmund manager.