Kevin Keegan believes a lack of Europe means Liverpool have a great chance for a top four finish.

Keegan is confident the Reds can secure a top-four finish this season - and believes not being involved in European competition this term could ultimately prove beneficial in their quest to seal a return to the Champions League.

Asked where he felt Liverpool would finish this season, he told liverpoolfc.tv: "Fourth or third. The reason I think they've got a great chance is because they're not in Europe, although it seems to me as though Kenny is treating the Carling Cup as Europe by putting strong sides out.

"But it's not the same pressure and you're not shooting over 2,000 miles to play in Russia, then come back and have to go to London on the Saturday - that's tiring.

"Not getting into the Europa League was a big plus for Liverpool, I think, and why I think they have a chance of getting into the top four."