Yossi's top four prediction

Yossi Benayoun predicts the pursuit of a top four finish will go right to the wire – but the fit-again playmaker is confident Liverpool will secure a Champions League berth.

The Reds played out a goalless draw with fellow top four hopefuls Manchester City at Eastlands on Sunday, while Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa pushed their way firmly back into the frame with wins over Wigan Athletic and Burnley.

Following yesterday's results, Spurs are now the current occupants of fourth spot - but just one point separates the quartet and Benayoun acknowledges the race is as tight as ever.

However, the 29-year-old, who made his return from a broken rib against City, is positive Liverpool will come out on top.

"We wanted to win but you have to remember that we were playing against a good team away from home," said Benayoun.

"One point was not good enough but it wasn't bad either. We are still in the race for fourth place and that is the most important thing.

"I think City have a lot of quality players.

"I think the race will go to the end between us, Man City, Tottenham and Villa."

Benayoun believes an increased cutting edge in the final third could be key in helping Liverpool achieve a top four finish.

He added: "We know where we need to improve. We need to create more and do more up front.

"Hopefully the defence will keep playing well. We have got the best defence in the league. Now we need to create more and then the goals will come."

Liverpool were able to take two major positives from the Eastlands stalemate as both Benayoun and Fernando Torres made their returns from the sidelines as second-half substitutes.

The pair had missed seven matches after sustaining injuries in the FA Cup third round replay with Reading at Anfield on January 13.

But with a comeback now under his belt, Benayoun insists he is determined to make up for lost time as the season enters its business end.

"For any player the worst thing that can happen to you is to be injured," he said. "So I'm just happy to be back after being out for a few weeks.

"It was difficult but hopefully now I can keep working hard in training, try to improve and try to help the team."

Video: 0-0 in 90 seconds and analysis>>