Javier Mascherano believes Liverpool have a chance of winning the Premier League, and expects them to join Barcelona in next year’s Champions League at the very least.
Mascherano left the Reds for Barcelona in 2010 but says that he has kept a close eye on the progress of the Merseyside club under Brendan Rodgers.
After helping the Catalan club to beat Manchester City in midweek, he says he can see Liverpool running them, Chelsea and Arsenal close for the title.
When asked how much Liverpool – who play Swansea later today – have improved, Mascherano responded: “Very much. They are a very good side. And I am very happy for the lads because I still have some friends at the club like Steven Gerrard and Lucas.
“So what is happening now is not only good for the club but good for them, too.
“They have been there a long time and deserve this. I enjoyed my time there. Liverpool are a top club and must always be in the top four of the Premier League. Always.
“I think they will finish in the top four this season. I have seen a lot of their games and I am very impressed with the way they are playing.
“I have watched Liverpool closely since leaving the club and this season you can see they have improved a lot. They are playing with more confidence and are doing very well.
“Is the message to them, ‘Come and join us in the Champions League?’ Yes, yes. I think so. They are not only doing well, they are fighting for the title.
“Fighting to the end. They are not many points behind so they can win the Premier League. Why not?
“There is more than half the season gone and look where Liverpool are lying in the table. They are fighting for the title as well as a top-four finish.
“Liverpool are a big, big club. You are going to see Liverpool in the top positions and in the Champions League and it is great to see them there.
“The target for them is the top four but why not Liverpool for the title? Why not Liverpool being crowned champions?”
