Former Liverpool manager Roy Evans does not believe that the Reds are capable of qualifying for the Champions League in 2014-15.

He praised current Anfield boss Brendan Rodgers and his signings, but does not think that the squad is strong enough to break into the Premier League top four.

"The plan is to try to get into the Champions League, but everyone else will be spending big money as well and it will be difficult for Liverpool still. You can't change things overnight," he told talkSPORT.

"Brendan had a decent season last season, and bringing in Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho were two massive buys in January and improved them no end. I hope these new lads can improve them a bit more."

Evans went on to say that Jamie Carragher's retirement is a big loss to the club and insisted that a sixth-place finish is "realistic".

He added: "It will be difficult with a bunch of young players. It's always difficult if you have too many young players in your side.

"You need a blend of youth and experience, and they've arguably lost their biggest leader in Jamie Carragher.

"I think they'll finish sixth. That won't be ideal because you want to be in the Champions League, but we have to be realistic and look where we're coming from."

Liverpool kick off their new Premier League season at home to Stoke City on August 17.