‘Liverpool can now focus on getting back into the top four’published at 08:41 GMT
08:41 GMT
Liverpool v Newcastle (Sat, 20:00 GMT)
Ian Kennedy
Reporter, BBC Radio Merseyside Sport
One of the big positives for Liverpool from Wednesday’s win over Qarabag was not so much the six goals they scored, it was the fact they can now put the Champions League to bed until the last-16 ties in March.
Yes, there is the FA Cup to think about, but the main focus will be on getting their league form right and getting back into that top four.
After the defeat at Bournemouth, the Reds are playing catch up again – now behind both Manchester United and Chelsea, and a full 10 points behind third-placed Aston Villa. Not playing European games for a while will be a relief of sorts.
But it is another huge game on Saturday night at home to Newcastle.
Arne Slot spoke about getting it right at both ends of the pitch to have a successful end to the season. Games against Newcastle usually provide plenty of goals, but the concern will be about keeping it tight at the back, especially with Jeremie Frimpong picking up an injury two minutes into Wednesday’s victory and Joe Gomez remaining doubtful for the weekend.
Whether Liverpool bring anyone in defensively before the transfer window closes remains to be seen.