Mark Lawrenson predicts where Liverpool will finish this season

Mark Lawrenson says a top-four finish is still a big ask for Liverpool despite Sunday’s 2-1 victory at Crystal Palace.

Roberto Firmino and Christian Benteke cancelled out Joe Ledley’s opener for Palace at Selhurst Park despite James Milner’s sending off in the second half.

The top four is still a big ask for the Reds while they remain so inconsistent

Mark Lawrenson

Liverpool’s victory leaves Jurgen Klopp’s side six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City in the race to secure a place in next season’s Champions League competition.

The Reds host Manchester United in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday night before the return leg at Old Trafford on 17 March.

Former Liverpool defender Lawrenson played down the Merseyside outfit’s chances of finishing in the top four, although the retired Irishman admitted Sunday’s win would be a big boost for the remainder of the season.

“Seeing Manchester United lose at West Brom under similar circumstances, after going down to 10 men, will be another boost for Liverpool,” Lawrenson told BBC Sport.

“The Reds are now only one place and three points behind United, and have got the greater impetus going into two big games against them in the Europa League.

“The top four is still a big ask for the Reds while they remain so inconsistent but winning the way they did against Palace, after playing poorly, will be such a good feeling.”

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Liverpool have won their last three Premier League games following top-flight victories over Aston Villa, Man City and Palace.