Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo has insisted the Reds can still finish in the top four this season, after the team looked much improved during the second-half of the 2-2 draw against Arsenal on Sunday.
Speaking in an interview with Dutch outlet VoetbalPrimeur, the 23-year-old spoke of the side’s chances of Champions League qualification, and how the performance against the Gunners was a big step in the right direction.
“We have to play every game like the second half against Arsenal. Without belief, you can’t start anything,” said Gakpo.
“Definitely, I believe in it [finishing in the Top 4]. We still believe in it and that is our goal.”
The Netherlands international only arrived at Anfield in January after a £37m deal was agreed with PSV Eindhoven, but he has since gone on to become an important player in Jurgen Klopp’s squad.
Gakpo believes Liverpool can finish in the top four
As it stands, we think this is a highly unlikely possibility.
Liverpool currently sit eighth in the Premier League table, having amassed 44 points from 29 games played.
The top two – Arsenal and Manchester City – are pulling ahead of the rest, meaning only third and fourth are up for grabs.
Newcastle and Manchester United both have 56 points from 29 matches, whilst Tottenham – who are fifth – have 53 points after 30 games.
The drop-off to sixth and all the way to eighth is larger, with Aston Villa on 47 points and Brighton on 46 points. However, the Villains have played 30 times thus far, whereas the Seagulls have only made 28 appearances.
Two points behind them is where Liverpool remain. Therefore, unless they go on a mad run and win every single game remaining, it’s unlikely the Reds will be playing Champions League football next year. Instead, the Europa League is a far more realistic goal to have.
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