Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted his side have made strong progress this season, regardless of whether they secure Europa League qualification.
The Reds are seven points off the top five in the Premier League following a goalless draw with West Ham United yesterday.
Rodgers believes that there are plenty of positive signs for his developing squad and has challenged his players to finish his first campaign in charge strongly.
He told The Mirror: "From the outset I always knew this season would give us some growing pains, but I firmly believe the progress we are making in our work is there for all to see, and we hope to continue on that road right until the last game of this season.
"Our aspirations are as still as high as they come, and this result hasn't changed anything. Our aim is to finish as high as we can, and we are still aiming high.
"Our Anfield form is getting better and we are full of thrust and getting bodies going forward. We will finish the season strong, with confidence and keep performing well in the league."
Reading are next up for Liverpool in the Premier League with the clash at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday.
