Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard eyes Premier League title challenge

EPL: Steven Gerrard, Wolverhampton Wanderers (Getty Images)

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Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes his team are strong enough to challenge for the title this season.

The skipper retained a groin injury last March which kept him out of action for the remainder of last season but is now anticipating the 2011/2012 campaign.

Gerrard told Sky Sports News: “If we were to get back in the top-four next season I think it would be a fantastic achievement.

“But we will be setting out to win the league, because that’s what you do year in and year out at Liverpool.”

He added: “We’ve got a good side together. Hopefully it’ll be strengthened with a few new signings in the next few weeks before we go back.

“Then we’ll be in a position where we’re competitive next season.”

Having spent months on the sidelines, Gerrard is eager to return to the Liverpool outfit to help his team push for the title.

“I’m actually dying for a game of football,” he added. “In a strange way it’s been good to get a rest mentally, and also physically.

“I believe I’m going to come back firing, fit and well next season.

“It’s probably the best I’ve felt, physically and mentally, going into a season so I’m excited, I can’t wait for it.”

He also admitted the hurt he felt when Manchester United surpassed Liverpool’s title record.

“The way they were playing you knew the 19 was going to come,” he added. “And it did hurt because they are our biggest rivals.

“You’ve got to give credit where it’s due. We’ve got to get on with it and the challenge is can we equalise as soon as possible.”