Jamie Carragher was thankful for a 'bit of luck' against Udinese which allowed the Reds to reach the Europa League knockout stages and have something to look forward to in February.

Qualification for the last 32 was secured with a 1-0 victory in Italy - but only after Antonio Di Natale narrowly missed a chance with the last kick of the encounter which would have eliminated Liverpool.

Carragher admitted his frustration that such a scenario could have occurred following a dominant performance at the Stadio Friuli, but was delighted to have topped Group A.

"The main thing was getting the win and getting through but the other result has gone our way and we've topped the group and that's a little bonus for us," the 34-year-old told Liverpoolfc.com.

"I think we got a bit sloppy in the second half and especially given the fact that they went down to 10 men, I think we should have seen the game out better.

"They missed a great chance at the end but it's gone our way and we've got that little bit of luck that you need."

The draw for the next two rounds of the tournament will be held on December 20, with the likes of Ajax, holders Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Napoli potentially lying in wait.

The defender added: "[The knockouts] will be something to look forward to in February. Until then, we can concentrate on the league and hopefully a couple of FA Cup games as well.

"Europe is great for Liverpool and we've got great history in the different European competitions and we want to do well.

"Hopefully finishing top of the group will make the draw a little bit kinder."