Liverpool legend and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has spoken out saying that he believes his former side will fufill their goal of returning to the UEFA Champions League by finishing in the top four this season, and can finish above Manchester United.
The Reds hopes of a high finish looked doomed after a turbulent start to the season, however a superb run since the new year has seen them climb into sixth place. This was compounded on Sunday, when they recorded an important 2-0 win away to Southampton.
Carragher said, "I have said for the last few weeks I didn't think Liverpool would get into he top four because of their FA Cup and European commitments and I fel Manchester United would.
"I don't know if people are saying Man United aren't playing well, they're out of form or if that's just how they play under Louis Van Gaal. The fact that they've dropped points can happen, but Liverpool are in great form."
Liverpool found themselves 10 points behind United on Boxing Day however the form since has seen them narrow the gap to just two points and two places. They meet in a crucial game at Anfield next month, which could go a long way to deciding who finishes higher.
"I think a lot will be decided in the game at Anfield and I'd have to fancy Liverpool to win that game with the form both teams are in. Whether the accumulation of games will be a factor for Liverool, who knows?"
Liverpool are still competing on multiple fronts this season, and find themselves in the FA Cup quarter finals and Europa League round of 32. They play Besiktas tomorrow in Turkey in the Europa League holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg.
"I'd be surprised if Brendan Rodgers goes full strength against Besiktas with the Manchester City game on Sunday," commented Carragher.
"After the win over Southampton, and Manchester United and Spurs dropping points, it looks like the top four is really there for Liverpool now.
"Before the weekend it was still a very outside chance and maybe the Europa League was their best chance (of Champions League qualification). But now I think that there is more chance of Liverpool getting into the top four than winning the Europa League and it is maybe something the manager and the staff need to assess."