Rodgers rules Liverpool out of title race

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has ruled his side out of the title race but is confident they can have an impact.

A 1-1 draw at West Brom on Sunday left the Reds eight points behind leaders Arsenal, who visit Anfield at the weekend.

Liverpool’s main priority is staving off the challenge of Everton and Tottenham, one and two points behind, respectively, to retain their current fourth place.

“I think for us, as a team, it’s too early for that,” said Rodgers of a title challenge, which he always maintained was an outside chance.

“I was at the Manchester City-Chelsea game the other night and I look at the squads they have, which they have built up over the last few years, and it’s very difficult for us.

“So, I wouldn’t say for us this year, no. We wouldn’t be challengers for it.”

Rodgers, who on Sunday said if Liverpool qualified for the Champions League this season they would be a year ahead of schedule, added: “Will we play a part in it (the title race)? Yes, we will, because we are professional and we want to fight to finish as high as we possibly can.

“But, if I’m asked to give an honest answer, I’d probably say that this year is too soon for us.”