Saturday, December 18, 2010

Reina Ready For Vital Period

Jose Reina is well aware that the festive period in the Premier League is a make-or-break period in Liverpool's 'realistic' quest for a place in the top four.

The Reds are preparing to welcome Fulham to Anfield on Saturday evening ahead of what looks to be a key series of fixtures in an inconsistent season.

Roy Hodgson will host his former club as the first of three home matches in four outings, with meetings against Wolves and Bolton on the agenda, as well as a Boxing Day trip to Blackpool.

And Reina is aware that Liverpool's reliable home form, which has secured 17 of their 22 points this season, could prove key in the challenge to return to the UEFA Champions League.

"We know it's a critical moment in the season. Every year Christmas time is huge," said the Spain international goalkeeper, who on his last Anfield appearance beat Ray Clemence's record in reaching 100 league clean sheets in the fastest time.

"There are 12 points just around the corner for us. They are tough but winnable games so it's a time to get ourselves back on track.

"The top four is realistic - that's realistic to talk about now.

"We have to beat Fulham and let's see how the Christmas period ends, then in January we can see where we're aiming for."

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