Gerrard: Our aims for 2011-12
Steven Gerrard wants Liverpool to still be in the title race heading into the final 10 games of the season - but he insists a return to Champions League football is our priority this term.
The club captain, who hopes to be back in action by mid-September, knows expectations are high after a fantastic summer of transfer activity and three wins from our opening four games.
He believes a top-four finish is a realistic target and is also hopeful of a cup run following early exits in both the FA and League Cups last season.
"As far as the league is concerned, a top-four finish is vital," said Gerrard.
"It's important we bring Champions League football back to the club. We need to take each game as it comes and see where we are around Christmas time - that's when you have a good look at it.
"Fingers crossed we are still in the title race when it comes down to the last 10 games - that's the plan.
"Going out to Northampton in the Carling Cup was unacceptable last season and we want to go all the way in that competition this season. It would be nice to get a trophy in the locker early doors.
"The FA Cup is a massive trophy for us to aim for. We've had some great experiences in that and I'd love to play in another final. It's time we had a trip to the new Wembley."
Liverpool have built on their tremendous run-in to last season by signing seven players and appointing Kevin Keen to the coaching staff.
"The positivity around the place has come from the very top," Gerrard said. "The owners have been superb and have backed Kenny really well. Damien Comolli and Kenny have been really smooth operators in the transfer window.
"They have shifted a lot of players who were no longer involved and were sitting on good contracts. They've done unbelievably well to move them on to other clubs.
"And they have brought in some quality players who are hungry and want to do well for the club.
"I'm really happy with the shape and the numbers we have in the squad and I'm excited about this season. You want to play with good players and I just can't wait to get back and lead the lads out.
"After the first three league games things are looking good. We've started well and progressed to the next round of the Carling Cup. There's a positive feeling around the training ground and around the games and now we need to try to maintain that. The only way to really do that is to keep winning. The team spirit and performances at the moment are where we want to keep them."
Gerrard last featured against Manchester United in March having suffered a serious groin injury.
Now back on the training pitch, there is no hiding his eagerness to return.
"I'm just so excited about getting back out there," he said. "I want that feeling of getting that first win and being sat in the dressing room afterwards. At that point all the hard work I've put in and all the little setbacks I've had will be worthwhile because I love playing for this club."