Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp has hit out at the current players.

Redknapp insisted there should be too much quality in a squad containing Stevie Gerrard and Fernando Torres to worry about the drop.

And he said Liverpool needed to show greater fight and determination - starting with the Merseyside derby next weekend.

"I heard Roy Hodgson say they are in a relegation battle but I don't see that for one second," said the former England midfield.

"But it doesn't get any easier. Next up is Everton at Goodison Park and I know how difficult it is to go there. I have played there countless times and it is tough.

"At the moment they have got to show character. I think the players can't use it as an excuse. Although it is very difficult when you are playing because people are protesting and it doesn't make it enjoyable, the players have to get on with it.

"They can't use it as an excuse - and say it is the financial situation or the owners. They have to play for the club . They are at a great football club and the performances have to improve.

"With the players they have, they shouldn't be in the bottom three so fingers crossed they can turn it around."