Top four target not pie in the sky - Hodgson

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson believes his side can still be regarded as challengers for the Barclays Premier League's top four. The Reds are currently nine points adrift of one-time leaders Chelsea, who now occupy the final position for Champions League qualification. With matches against Blackpool - on Boxing Day - Wolves, Bolton and Blackburn to come over the festive period there is a real chance to close the gap. "We are in a position to strike for the top four but we are a good few points off," Hodgson added. "Some people would say it is pie in the sky to suggest we can do it but I don't think there is such a thing as pie in the sky in terms of football. "I have seen so many times in the past teams who have been doomed to relegation not get relegated and teams like Leeds United many years ago who were so obviously going to win the first division and didn't do so. "Everything is possible and while things are possible we will play for them but we are realistic and we are not making any vain promises. We know we have given ourselves a severe handicap but we will work to bring in that handicap."

Source: PA