Liverpool FC legend Jan Molby confident of 3rd place finish

by Richard Buxton. Published Tue 09 Feb 2010 10:06, Last updated: 2010-02-09

Anfield hero Jan Molby believes that Liverpool can start their bid for a third-place finish in the Barclays Premier League with a win against Arsenal.

Fresh from securing bragging rights over local rivals Everton at the weekend, the Reds travel to the Emirates Stadium for tomorrow's high-profile encounter. Ex-Denmark international Molby believes that a win over Arsene Wenger's side could act as a catalyst for an assult on the top three rather than scraping fourth spot.

Five points currently separate the two sides but a win for the Anfield outfit would reduce the gap to just two points and extend their unbeaten record to eight consecutive matches.

Molby, who played for Liverpool between 1985 and 1996, said: "I think they can go to Arsenal full of confidence. The results Liverpool have had mean they can feel they have a good chance against any team, but I think it is a good time to play Arsenal. I think Arsenal are doubting themselves at the moment after their own recent run.

"To win at Arsenal is always a big ask, but if Liverpool were to win then the gap is only two points, and it would be interesting to see how Arsenal would respond if that were to happen. Could they react? Would they crumble?

"Liverpool are clawing their way back into form. The football is not sensational - even against Everton - but they have found some heart and some fight, and that was perhaps lacking previously.

"The defensive side is back to what it used to be - which is spot on - and that really helps. If you are not conceding goals then you are always in with a chance, and Liverpool are not conceding goals at the moment."

Molby also paid tribute to Dirk Kuyt after he netted his 50th Liverpool goal in the 1-0 win over Everton last Saturday. The 46-year-old was full of praise for the Dutchman's work ethic and ability to provide both goals and assists.

He added: "I've always been a fan of Dirk. He's had a bit of a bad time, but now he is doing what he does best.

"He is all about energy and getting into the box, producing the goods and scoring goals, and Liverpool are all the better for it."