We can't afford to lose

Last updated : 22 February 2003 By Chris Maxwell
The Reds boss is fully aware that a long unbeaten run, which they have achieved at the end of the last two campaigns, is a must if the Reds are to claim a crucial Champions League spot.

He said: "I hope the victory in Auxerre can act as a springboard for the rest of the season. We are aware we cannot afford to lose any more league games to reach the Champions League.

"We can't lose another game but we have done that in the past two seasons where we have gone on great runs at the end so we have the knowledge of how to do it.

"We won nine out of our last 10 games last season and had a similar record the year before. And now we cannot any more slip-ups.

"The Champions League is part of our priorities now but you don't choose in football. The good thing is it is not our only priority, we have others.

"We've got the same targets as 2001. Everything is achievable with this team, when they want a result they are difficult to break."