Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge says the team is determined to finish in top four this season, which could be used as a springboat to challenging for the Premier League title next season.

After agonisingly coming close to winning the league last season, Liverpool struggled to maintain that form early this campaign but have fought back well in the second half and keen on finishing in top four.

Sturridge said: “To finish in the top four is realistic for us, it’s what we’re aiming to do, and if we can get higher than that then perfect.

“But finishing in the top four is the objective, and that’s the most important thing for us. It’s not about aiming for anything other than that now.

“If we can finish in the top four, then we can push on and challenge for the title again next season.”

Sturridge has missed a major part of the season through injury and has scored three goals in 12 games since returning from injury in January.

Liverpool face Manchester United on Sunday where victory for the Reds would see them moving into top four with eight games remaining.