Rio Ferdinand backs Liverpool to earn Premier League top-four spot after return to winning ways

Last year’s title-winners fell well off the pace at the start of the calendar year

The Reds beat Arsenal with ease to make it three wins in a row in all competitions (Getty Images)

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has changed his mind on Liverpool earning a Champions League spot for next season after their 3-0 win over Arsenal.

The TV pundit had recently suggested Jurgen Klopp’s side wouldn’t make the top four this term, but the win at the Emirates Stadium was a second successive Premier League victory - following the win at Wolves before the international break - and moves the Reds to within two points of fourth-place Chelsea.

Thomas Tuchel’s side were shocked by West Brom at the weekend, while Leicester, in third, lost against Manchester City.

Ferdinand says Liverpool will take plenty of positives from their victory against the Gunners which should give them an edge during the season run-in and the race for the top four.

“I think Liverpool are going to get in there now. The result they got at the weekend, the performance and the confidence that will give that team,” he said on BT Sport.

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In addition to the points and positivity, Ferdinand explained how the Anfield club’s successes over the past couple of years could now come to the fore again, given the winning experience in decisive moments they have gained.

He favours Klopp’s team to find consistency when it matters most, particularly compared to the other sides in the same battle.

“Fabinho back as well is a huge boost. Liverpool, with how they’ve been in the last two seasons, they have that know-how, that nous to go and put a run of results together.

“Out of Chelsea, Leicester, Liverpool and Spurs I think Liverpool is the one who could go on a six, seven-game run.

“I’ve got a sneaky feeling they will [make it]. I hope not if I’m being honest!”

Liverpool are in midweek action in the Champions League, with their quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid, before facing Aston Villa next weekend - when West Ham and Leicester will face each other and Spurs host Manchester United.