Liverpool's best XI of the season so far: Raheem Sterling should play in the front three while Steven Gerrard remains on the bench

ANALYSIS: Based on statistics across the season, Brendan Rodgers needs to stop using Raheem Sterling as a wing-back

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Defeat to Manchester United just over a week ago has left Liverpool with a mighty task in their final eight games if they want to reach the Champions League.

Brendan Rodgers' team are now five points off their bitter rivals in fourth place and have a much worse goal difference; with Southampton and Tottenham still breathing down their necks the Reds will need a strong finish to the season to have any chance of reaching the Champions League.

Unfortunately for Rodgers, his team has several issues because of injury and suspension. Both Martin Skrtel and Steven Gerrard will miss the next three matches because of suspension, while there are fitness issues with Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren, Daniel Sturridge, Raheem Sterling and Jordan Ibe.

Heading into the final eight matches of the season, which team is likely to give Brendan Rodgers his best chance of success?

Our friends at Whoscored.com produce a rating for every player, based on every aspect of their performances in the Premier League this season. The figure is considered among the most accurate, respected and well-known performance indicators in the world of football. Exact details on how it is calculated can be found here.

Using the tool, we've looked at the best line-up for the Liverpool (we've included players who are suspended and injured) so far this season.

There's no place for Steven Gerrard...

Do you agree with the team? Let us know in the comments below