Top four remains in Hodgson's sights

Liverpool: Manager Roy Hodgson admits a victory today may allow him to sleep easier but will not provide an instant fix to what has been a difficult start to the season.
By The Newsroom
Published 24th Sep 2010, 19:52 BST
Updated 24th Sep 2010, 20:50 BST

However, he has dismissed critics who say his squad does not have enough quality to finish in the top four of the Premier League, insisting regaining their Champions League status remains well within their capabilities.

Sunderland visit Anfield looking to capitalise on a tough week for the Reds which last weekend saw them claw their way back from 2-0 down against Manchester United only to concede late on.

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The midweek Carling Cup exit to League Two Northampton, albeit with an understrength team, has contributed to the despondency which appears to be enveloping the club.

Liverpool are currently 16th having beaten only West Brom in their opening five matches, lost twice in Manchester to City and United and drawn with Arsenal and at Birmingham.

Hodgson said: “I shall sleep a bit better on Saturday night if we get a win – but we might not. Nothing I can say changes the result on Wednesday or repair any damage done by the poor performance.

“What will change everything is a good performance on Saturday, a good (Europa League) performance in Utrecht on Thursday and a good performance against Blackpool the following Sunday.

“Maybe then there will be a totally different atmosphere.”

Related topics:Roy HodgsonLiverpoolPremier LeagueSunderlandManchester UnitedChampions LeagueManchester