"It's important for us to secure at least fourth, and the sooner we do it the better so we can concentrate on the Champions League," said the defender.
"Now we can focus all our thoughts on the PSV game. We've a good starting point going into that, but there's still work to do, and then we can look to Manchester City and the two home games which follow and think we're in a strong position to make sure we've clinched the nine points I think we need to qualify for the Champions League again.
"When you start the season, that's always the first aim. Of course, we'd rather finish third than fourth, but realistically it's the same thing.
"That's the minimum target. Then we know there could be more very important games in the Champions League to come, and if we can get that far knowing we've already secured our top four position, it's better for us."