Kolo Toure remains confident the Reds can still make the top four this season, despite a disappointing 0-0 draw at home to Sunderland on Saturday.
The Reds took a step backwards following consecutive Premier League victories, with Toure and Lucas Leiva the only players to emerge with any real praise following another improved defensive display.
But whilst goals continue to be a problem for the side who look a shadow of the one that came so close to the Premier League title last season, Toure still believes a top four finish is well within their grasp.
“We knew it was going to be a tough game. They defend very well, they showed that against Chelsea [0-0 draw last weekend],” said the Ivory Coast defender, who will now concentrate on Tuesday’s must-win Champions League match at home to Basel.
“At the end we have one point, which is hard to take but this league is tough and every team fights — Newcastle won against Chelsea which shows this league is really difficult.
“It is better but last season we did much better than that. We have had a difficult start but we are catching up slowly and surely. There is more work to do, definitely.
“Last season we were outstanding in every area and going forward it was amazing. Defensively we were strong, but this season has been difficult.
“When you have a tough start it is always difficult because the confidence is not always there. We are catching up and the team feels more secure and we need to keep going in that direction.”
