Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers thinks his team will be genuine title challengers next season. He believes if they can win some silverware before then, either the FA Cup or the Capital One Cup, it will enhance their chances further.
"The reality for us this season was, could we finish in the top four? With so many changes we weren't going to challenge for the league," he said.
"We were looking to win a trophy and then come next summer we will be ready to challenge for the title again.
"This year was about getting into the top four, trying to minimise the impact of so many new signings, giving them time to develop and target a trophy in the cup competitions.
"Emre Can, Mamadou Sakho, Philippe Coutinho, Raheem Sterling, Alberto Moreno, Javier Manquillo, Adam Lallana - all players who still have a lot to develop.
"The squad is looking exciting but needs that time to evolve.
"If we can get success in a cup competition this year it will provide greater motivation and stimulation for them to stay together and perform.
"Along the way you have to bring in ready-made quality to help their growth.
"Come the summer time that period of integration should be complete and we can challenge for the title like we did last season."
