Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes the additional competition for Champions League places this season will actually help his stuttering side.
The Reds are currently seventh, five points outside the top four, after a dismal run of only two wins in their last nine Barclays Premier League matches.
However, despite their recent poor form, they have not been cut adrift from Aston Villa, Tottenham and Manchester City, the other teams realistically chasing Champions League qualification.
And, with leaders Chelsea having lost three times and United and Arsenal four, the Liverpool boss believes there will be plenty more opportunities to reclaim lost ground.
"It is easier to lose games for the top four because the other teams are stronger, too," said Benitez, whose side face a must-win match at home to 14th-placed Wigan.
"You can see Aston Villa, Tottenham or Manchester City can beat anyone, too, so maybe it will be better for the competition.
"Now we are in a bad position but it can help us because, if other teams continue to lose points, there are 22 games to play so we have to be positive."
