Steve McManaman: It Will be Great Season if Liverpool Finish in Top Four

Steve McManaman says finishing in the top four should be Liverpool's target for the forthcoming season.

The former Reds midfielder claims it will be harder for the Anfield team during the new campaign due to playing additional Champions League fixtures. It's the first time Liverpool will be in the competition since 2010.

Manager Brendan Rodgers saw his side lose the Premier League title by two points to Manchester City on the final day of the season, with the Reds finishing second in the table.

The Merseyside club have strengthened their squad in the ongoing summer transfer window by adding eight new faces, including Adam Lallana and Lazar Markovic, although Divock Origi has returned back on loan to Lille for the season.

Liverpool's return to Europe's elite club competition will see them challenge in four competitions.

"Like most Liverpool fans, I've been really impressed by the business they've done," McManaman told the Liverpool Echo.

"It has made the squad a whole lot stronger and that's vital in order to cope with competing on four fronts. They have looked very sharp in pre-season and the main target this season has to be finishing in the top four."

"If Liverpool achieve that, it will have been another great season. Some people will argue that having finished second last season, if Liverpool come third or fourth they're on a downward spiral."

"But I don't look at it like that. It will be harder this season. Liverpool played 43 games last season. If they advance to the knockout stages of the Champions League they could find themselves playing 60-odd this season."

"It's tough to suddenly go from 40-odd to 60-odd games with all the extra travelling that involves. In terms of revenue and gaining experience, it's crucial Liverpool stay in the top four."

"The likes of Chelsea and Manchester City currently look that bit better equipped to win the title. They haven't rested on their laurels, they've spent big money this summer too."