STEVIE: QUALIFICATION WAS IN SAFE HANDS

Steven Gerrard claims Champions League qualification was always in safe hands thanks to Pepe Reina.

Liverpool's man between the sticks had to pull off a string of world-class saves across the two legs against Standard Liege. Despite a few nervous moments, Gerrard insists he is never too worried when Reina is on the pitch. "We expect that from Pepe because he is one of the best keepers in the world," said the 28-year-old. "You can always rely on him if you're under the cosh and he's done well for us again tonight. "The main feeling when the goal went in was relief because you don't want to go to penalties because it's a bit of a lottery, although you know you've always got a chance with Pepe. "It was a great ball by Ryan and a great finish by Dirk." Though far from perfect, Gerrard believes the performance against Liege showed signs of improvement from our other early season displays. He explained: "I think there was a slight improvement on our previous games. Like I've said, the tempo was a bit better and we'll certainly take that as a positive. "It was all about qualification tonight. We've done it the hard way but we're in the draw and that's the main thing. "I think we showed good character. We know there will be times during the season when things aren't going to be rosy and we're not going to play great all the time. "When this does happen it's all about sticking in there, working hard for each other and getting the result, and thankfully we've managed to do that tonight. "It's also important to remember that we've still got players to come back who will make the squad stronger in the coming weeks. Hopefully we will get a few more players in before the transfer window shuts. "But when it comes down to it, if you'd asked me a couple of weeks ago if I'd be happy with two wins out of two in the league and making it through to the Champions League, I would obviously have taken it." Gerrard will now undergo a groin operation which will keep him out for 10-15 days. The club captain added: "I'm struggling with that at the moment but I hope to find out more in the next couple of days."