Source: Daily_Mail
Yossi Benayoun: Liverpool may have blown it in race for fourth spot after Birmingham stalemate
Yossi Benayoun fears Liverpool's disappointing draw at Birmingham on Sunday may have cost the Reds Champions League football next season.[LNB]Liam Ridgwell struck in the second half to equalise Steven Gerrard's fine strike and leave Liverpool trailing fourth-placed Manchester City by four points, having played a game more.[LNB]Midfielder Benayoun has now revelead his frustration at the Reds plight this season and admitted that confidence in the Anfield camp is at a low. [LNB] Controversy: Rafa Benitez substitutes Fernando Torres at St Andrews[LNB]No confidence: Yossi Benayoun in action against Birmingham on Sunday[LNB] 'It is hard to explain,' Benayoun said today. 'There is a big difference between last season - performances were much better then and we had more confidence. [LNB]'This season we started bad in the first game. There was a moment when we thought we were coming back but then we disappointed ourselves with a few bad games. [LNB]'It is very difficult when you are not close to the top and you do not feel as if you have the chance to win something. It is disappointing but we will keep going. [LNB]'We are fighting for fourth place. I know it is important but it just isn't the same. We have made it harder but all we can do is play the last five games and see what happens. [LNB] Down and out? David Ngog relects on one of his missed opportunities[LNB]'We are now depending on other results and this makes it more difficult. This was a big chance. Birmingham are a good team but we had to win, especially after Tottenham lost.'[LNB] Rafa Benitez's decision to replaceFernando Torres with David Ngog for the final 25 minutes at St Andrews in a gameLiverpool had to win has attracted much controversy, with supporters left wondering whether the Anfield boss has given up on chasing fourth and instead prioritised the Europa League, which resumes this week.[LNB] Fans' frustrations boiled over as Ngog missed three chances, but Benayoun does not think Benitez's actions are an issue. [LNB]'Substitutions are part of the game and it is the job of the manager to do what he thinks is best for the team - nothing else,' said Benayoun. [LNB] Liverpool can forget about playing in the Champions League next seasonRafa Benitez stuns fans by subbing Fernando Torres: Is this the moment Liverpool boss gave up on finishing fourth?Birmingham 1 Liverpool 1: You're four it! But Rafa says he'll clinch Euro spotLIVERPOOL FC
