Rio Ferdinand performs immediate Liverpool u-turn when discussing top-four chances

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Rio Ferdinand performed an immediate u-turn when discussing Liverpool’s chances of a top-four finish on BT Sport’s PL Tonight – after initially suggesting that Jurgen Klopp’s team would miss out when it comes to Champions League qualification.

Liverpool secured an excellent 3-0 away win over Arsenal on Saturday evening as Diogo Jota came off the bench to score two goals. The Portuguese ace has proven to be a rare shining light in a higely disappointing Liverpool season.

Mo Salah also netted in a brilliant second-half display against Mikel Arteta’s side. The win has seen Liverpool climb into sixth place, two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea who dropped points on Saturday – losing to West Bromwich Albion.

Ferdinand was asked who would finish in the top four, and he initially stated that the four clubs currently sitting in those positions would stay there – but then changed his mind, claiming Sunday’s win over Arsenal might give Liverpool a platform.

“The teams that are there right now will finish there,” Ferdinand said. “Liverpool have a say in it, if their win over Arsenal is anything to go by – that puts them in with a shout. If I was a betting man, the teams right there now will finish there.

“Actually, I might change. I think Liverpool might get in there. That result, the confidence that will give the team – Fabinho back in midfield is huge. Liverpool have got that know how, that nous to put a string of results together.

“Out of Spurs, Chelsea, Liverpool, a team that can go win games back to back, Liverpool are that team.“

TBR’s view – Next Chelsea result will prove pivotal

Chelsea looked lethargic, devoid of any idea and without the required fitness to beat a West Brom side that have been pretty poor all season. Following an away clash against Porto in the Champions League this week, they face Palace on Saturday.

The Blues have got to get back to winning ways this week. Failing to beat Palace and Chelsea will lose their grip, and the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, West Ham and Everton all have a chance. Everton and Tottenham seem too inconsistent.

Liverpool need a string of results, but West Ham seem to churn out performances continually. The Hammers seem best placed.