No glory in fourth

While Houllier and his faithful board seem happy to accept a top four placing this season, Opta have revealed that Liverpool's total of fifty points from 34 games is the worst of any fourth-placed side at this point in a Premierhip season.

Newcastle United had amassed 64 points - more than the Reds can achieve by winning their last four games - at this time of the season, with two previous Liverpool sides also bettering the total under Roy Evans.