Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has backed new manager Brendan Rodgers to lead the club back into the UEFA Champions League at his first attempt.
The Reds have missed out on Europe's premier competition for the last three seasons after finishing outside the top four and Kenny Dalglish paid the price for their latest failure.
Gerrard is quoted in several national newspapers insisting a top-four finish is both a priority and a realistic target. He said: "Getting in that top four again is certainly the priority. I am confident we will get it. If we can play like we did in a lot of games last season and take our chances, I think we will be high up in the table."
Gerrard, speaking on the club's pre-season tour of North America, says he was not surprised by the decision to replace the legendary Dalglish.
He also admits there is pressure on the players to perform in the new campaign but has been impressed by the impact made so far by Rodgers.
"Kenny knows himself that when Liverpool finish eighth, the owners and supporters are going to ask questions," Gerrard added.
"While there was shock and disappointment at the time, you understood the decision. You move on with what the club wanted to do and they wanted Brendan Rodgers in.
"I think we'll definitely see a much bolder Liverpool team. Over the years sometimes Liverpool have come up against certain type of opposition and we have shown them too much respect but I think this manager is the opposite and wants us to play like a big team.
"I've been really impressed with him."
Source: PA
