Babel: Time to end wait

Ryan Babel has revealed his ambition to join the band of players fortunate enough to have won silverware with Liverpool.

The Dutch forward has yet to collect a winners medal since arriving at Anfield from Ajax in 2007, but he is optimistic that can change this season.

While eager not to make any bold predictions, the 23-year-old is confident Roy Hodgson has the talent at his disposal to ensure the Reds can challenge for honours this term, should they retain the fitness of key players.

"I am not a big fan of saying how far we can go, but I am sure if everybody stays fit we have a good chance to stay up (at the top) with our other rivals and opponents," Babel told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Let's make sure this time we can stay fit for as long as possible and we have a strong squad.

"Every player will say they are fortunate if they win trophies with Liverpool, and that is the same for me.

"I have been here for a while now and haven't won anything yet. I think it's time to win something."

Next up on the agenda for Liverpool is a trip to Birmingham City on Sunday afternoon.

Alex McLeish's side have garnered five points from their opening three fixtures in the Barclays Premier League, and Babel is anticipating an end-to-end contest at St Andrews.

"I expect an open game because Birmingham are doing very well," he said. "They are a team we have to beware of - they want to attack and play good football. They are a good opponent, so I expect an open game with lots of chances.

"I think McLeish is a very good manager and I think he puts his players in the right positions.

"They have also bought new players and have an owner who wants a new structure at the club, so they are definitely a team we have to beware of.

"But we definitely can't afford to let points slip away. We have to make sure we stay with the other teams (at the top). It's very important."

Click on the image below to watch our exclusive interview with Babel