The 30-year-old Spanish goalkeeper has urged the Anfield hierarchy to invest in the squad this summer to propel the club towards the Champions League places next season

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina believes his side will need some assistance from the board if they are to become serious contenders for Champions League qualification next season.

The Reds romped to a 4-0 victory over Wigan at the weekend, but remain 10 points adrift of the top four after a run of three wins in their last six Premier League games.

However, Reina feels the Merseysiders are capable of qualifying for the competition, but stressed that the club’s hierarchy will need to play their part in turning that ambition into a reality.

He told The Daily Express: “This year has been important for us in terms of getting to know what the manager wants and develop the ideas.

“We have to be ready for the very first game of next season to challenge. Obviously, we will need some help from the board, but I think the basis is well settled.

“We know the ideas and philosophies of the manager. It is getting better and better, so hopefully we will be ready to compete.

“The whole group is trying to find the right balance. We will get better, I’m sure of it.”