Steven Gerrard has issued a rallying cry to Liverpool
fans and team-mates, insisting ‘our season is still alive’ both
domestically and in Europe.
The Reds’ early Premier League title charge this season looked
to be as credible as it has been throughout Rafa Benitez’s reign
but seems to have tailed off in recent weeks.
The Spaniard has nevertheless weaved his usual magic in the
Champions League, guiding the club to a 1-0 first leg win over Real
Madrid that has put them in pole position to progress to the last
eight.
Manchester United’s domestic lead stands at seven points in
addition to the game they have in hand on both Liverpool and
Chelsea, but Gerrard is desperate that all involved at Anfield
remain optimistic after Tuesday’s win over Sunderland.
"It was a comfortable win and it lifted everybody," he said on
the club’s official website. "We've struggled at home this season
but in midweek we were patient and got our rewards. It was
important to bounce back with a win and a good performance.
"The following night it was frustrating watching Newcastle play
United because there were times when I thought United could drop
points. Newcastle went in front and then I was off the couch when
they almost scored a second.
"United seem to be playing well and getting the results but if
teams believe they can take points off them then I am sure it will
happen sooner or later. It's important for us not to let the gap
get any bigger and if they make mistakes we have to be ready to
pounce. Of course, we all know how big our game at Old Trafford is
going to be.
"Our season is still very much alive. We're not giving up in the
title race and we're 1-0 up in the Champions League and one win
away from a place in the last eight.
"It's important people stay positive and upbeat and not be down
or worried about things."
The Liverpool skipper went on to express his hope that Fernando
Torres recover from injury in time for next week’s second leg with
Madrid so the pair can reunite a partnership which has been
scarcely seen this season.
"It's been frustrating because I certainly love playing with him
and from reading some of the things he's said, he loves playing
with me," said the England midfielder.
"Ideally we want to end the season playing together and
performing for the team.
"I spoke to him a couple of days ago and he seems very
optimistic so fingers crossed he can pull through for Tuesday
because you know how much I like playing against Everton, and I'm
sure it's the same for him playing against Madrid."