Cissokho: We can stay the distance
Aly Cissokho believes Liverpool are strong enough to challenge for the top places in the Barclays Premier League right through to the end of 2013-14.
The Reds go into Saturday's clash with Arsenal at the Emirates two points behind the Gunners, who sit top of the table after nine games.
And while he's not getting carried away by the excellent start his side has made to the campaign, Cissokho insists there is a belief within the squad that they can make this a season to remember.
"We'll take it one match at a time, but we have started well, and we are near the top of the league," he told Liverpoolfc.com.
"We have players in the squad like Kolo Toure, Steven Gerrard, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel, who have plenty of experience and who have started in some big European matches as well. We are at one of the biggest clubs in the world and they motivate everyone.
"In every match, we set out to take all three points, to stay near the top of the rankings, so as to finish the season strongly.
"I think if we could get the three points against Arsenal it would send a strong message to the other teams in the competition.
"There are a lot of matches to go, the season is long and there will be difficult matches. The tough ones can be against the lower teams in the league, where you might think of having a more relaxed outing.
"But if you're setting out to qualify for the Champions League through a domestic league like the Premier League, you really have to concentrate and remain serious for each match, whether it's against a team from the lower end of the table or one right at the top.
"We're only a couple of weeks ahead of the international break, so it would be good to take the three points at Arsenal, and look forward to the next home match and try to stay at the top of the table during the break.
"For both for us the players and the fans as well, that would set us up nicely for the next part of the season."
Cissokho is more than aware of the qualities Arsene Wenger's outfit have in their locker - and he insists Liverpool will have to be at their best to get a result on Saturday.
He added: "They have some very high-level players, the most recent being Ozil - his passing and his movement make a big difference.
"He has been a big plus with his creativity in serving the Arsenal forwards. It's clear that if we can deprive him of possession, and press him when he is on the ball, that can only be a good thing for us.
"It will be a special match. It's a beautiful stadium and Arsenal are a good team which plays really well on the ball. They remind me of the Spanish clubs, who keep the ball, keep possession, may be less physical, but are certainly technically very good.
"So we'll have to put in a strong defensive performance and look to take advantage of any space we can get to score.
"It's an important match for us. It won't be easy, and it will need a lot of good study and preparation by the staff.
"Although we see them all the time, it's important to know their characteristics. I think we have a good chance of going there to win, and to make a great match of it."
