Johnson boost for Liverpool

Glen Johnson claims he is getting back to his best form and this could be vital if Liverpool are to finish in the Premier League top four this season.

The defender arrived at Anfield from Portsmouth during the summer of 2009 but was forced to miss two months of the season with a serious knee injury.

His absence was one of a string of injury problems which have blighted Liverpool's season and left them struggling to qualify for the Champions League.

A 0-0 draw with Fulham last weekend means they have a lot of work to do to finish in the top four as they are now six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with four games to go.

Johnson told Sky Sports News he is improving his fitness following his return to the first team in March and the best is yet to come - which could be great news for Liverpool fans.

"Obviously when you have been out for so long it is difficult to pick up where you left off because your match fitness has gone out the window and you need games to get that back," the England defender said.

"Every game I feel better and better now."

Liverpool's Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina recently told BBC Radio Merseyside that the side cannot afford to drop any more points this season if they want to finish in the top four.

Despite Man City looking favourites in the race, Reina added the Liverpool squad will battle until the final ball is kicked to achieve their objectives this season. As well as chasing fourth, they are also favourites in the Europa League betting.

For his part, Reina will be looking forward to taking his place the Spain squad which will travel to South Africa this summer.

The side are firm favourites in the World Cup odds and should be in with an excellent chance of winning the tournament.