Steve Coppell believes Liverpool's chances of ending their 18-year title drought could be boosted by an early Champions League exit.

Rafael Benitez's expensively-assembled collection of internationals will have its unbeaten start to the Premier League tested at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday's.

But the fourth-placed Reds know they must then get the right result in France three days later, against Marseille, if they are to remain in the Champions League.

Reading boss Coppell said: "They are an excellent team and they have invested to compete right at the top end and that's where they are.

"But their demand is to win the league. If they finish fourth then they will have failed.

"And I have always said what will decide the title race will be the effect of Europe and key injuries. Those two factors, when you get to March, might work in Liverpool's favour if they are not in Europe.

"All the top teams have shown this season that if they lose real key individuals they are less effective."