Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has told his players it is critical for the club to finish in the top four this season.

Liverpool saw their Champions League qualification chances ended last night, despite victory in Hungary against Debrecen.

Gerrard said: "It's important we finish in the top four, that goes without saying.

"For financial reasons, but also from a personal point of view it is important for players to play in the Champions League because it's the best level.

"It's important we go to Everton on Sunday, try to get the three points and get ourselves back in the top four as soon as possible.

"Now that we've got the majority of the squad back fit, I'm very confident we can turn things around and go on a long run of winning games.

"Hopefully Torres is not too far away and then we'll have everyone back fit and go from there."