Liverpool's Route to UCL Qualification: The Permutations
By George Rostron
Liverpool have only managed to pick up a single point in their last three Premier League games. This has grown the nervous prospect that the Reds could find themselves with no Champions League football next season, as the door remains open for Bournemouth or Brighton to nick 5th spot on May 24th. The fact remains, however, that it is in Liverpool’s hands.
Due to UEFA coefficient rankings, the Premier League was granted an extra place in the Champions League next season, meaning the top 5 are guaranteed a place. This meant going into the game against Aston Villa, both sides needed a victory to secure their spot in next season's Champions League. Aston Villa seemed to be the only team on the pitch to know that, as Liverpool churned out yet another lacklustre performance. Aston Villa came out of the game victorious, winning 4-2, and so they secured a top 5 finish in the League this season, meaning Champions League qualification for them.