Ryan Babel has insisted Liverpool can still make next season's Champions League but has conceded defeat to Wigan Athletic on Monday will probably an uphill battle.

The Reds face competition from Tottenham Hotspur who currently lie fourth, fifth placed Manchester City and Aston Villa luring just beneath the Anfield outfit in seventh.

Each club have games in hand.

Babel who played played just eight minutes at the DW Stadium on Monday said: "I think we made it difficult for ourselves. In the first half especially, there was space to play football but we failed to do it.

"Then they scored and it was difficult because they were staying behind the ball. In any away game it is hard to score two goals.

"We definitely still have faith we can get fourth place. It will be harder and it's important to get three points in every game, as it was before Wigan. That's why it is so disappointing to have lost.

"It is frustrating that we had built up some confidence by winning games, but one game can spoil the confidence.

"The disappointment is very big for everybody, but we have to start again."

Though preparation for Thursday's Europa League match with Lille will be prioritised over the next 48 hours or so the Wigan game will be relived by the Liverpool squad and then discussed.   

Babel noted that Rafael Benitez will probably have many thoughts and tactical points.

He added "We will analyse the game and then we will know what his thoughts are.

"We have another important game on Thursday, so we have to be ready and prepared.

"We cannot be disappointed for too long. We will analyse and watch videos, like we always do, and I am sure we will be good for the game."