Gerrard eyes Europa task

Reds skipper says competition is important

Last updated: 27th August 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Gerrard eyes Europa task

Gerrard: Europa task

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Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is looking forward to the challenge his side face in the Europa League following the draw for the group stage.

The Reds got through the qualifying round on Thursday following a 3-1 aggregate triumph over Turkish outfit Trabzonspor, and now face ties against Napoli, Steaua Bucharest and Utrecht.

Manager Roy Hodgson has already admitted that the Europa League is not the club's priority this season, as the former Fulham boss looks to rebuild after a disappointing campaign last time out.

But midfielder Gerrard, 30, insists Liverpool want to do well in the competition even if there may be more important things to consider.

"It's a strong group and I'm certainly looking forward to the games," he said.

"The media will make us early favourites I'm sure, because of our experience in the Champions League and last year in the Europa League.

"I'm confident we can get out of the group but it will be tough. The draw has given us some difficult challenges.

"I don't think the Europa League is the priority. Everybody knows that our league position, where we finish at the end of this year, is the priority.

"But it's another trophy, it's a big cup.

"We haven't won a trophy for four years now so it's important we put a good show on in all the cup competitions and try to reward the fans with a final."

Liverpool's first group stage game is at Anfield against Romanian side Bucharest on Thursday 16th September.