Liverpool are in a big battle to make it to the Champions League next season and many predict that achieving the goal would be tough especially after the season-ending injury picked up by Sadio Mane against Everton and with the likes of Firmino, Lallana and Henderson struggling to return to full fitness.

John Barnes, however, believes the Reds have what it takes to make it to the Champions League even with the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal involved in a battle for two places in the top four.

While speaking to Express Sport, the former Red stated:

“They’ve got a better chance than Arsenal and Manchester United, so I think it’s going to be between those three for the final slot.”

He also added that three teams more or less are guaranteed to play in the Champions League as the top three and the real battle was for the fourth-placed slot.

“I think Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham are going to be in the top four, but I make Liverpool favourites for that fourth spot because the whole harmony at Arsenal isn’t right and Manchester United are a little bit away, so I think they’ve got a great chance of finishing in the top four.”

Barnes even stated that without Mane in the side, Liverpool have a chance of making it to the top four and have a lot of quality.

“I think they’re strong enough without him,” he said.

“Of course he’s an important player and they do struggle without their important players but I think they’re strong enough.

“The Premier League is a difficult league and anybody can do anything so it’s going to be a difficult run in but Arsenal are having their problems, Manchester United are having their problems as well.”

Liverpool face West Bromwich Albion in their next game and should they pick up three points at the Hawthorns, Champions League football would be one big step closer.