Liverpool's main priority is staving off the challenge of Everton and Tottenham, one and two points behind respectively, to retain their current fourth place.

"I think for us, as a team, it's too early for that," said Rodgers of a title challenge, which he always maintained was an outside chance.

"I was at the Manchester City-Chelsea game the other night and I look at the squads they have, which they have built up over the last few years, and it's very difficult for us even though we have competed right the way through the season.

"So, I wouldn't say for us this year, no. We wouldn't be challengers for it."

Rodgers, who on Sunday said if Liverpool qualified for the Champions League this season they would be a year ahead of schedule, added on Sky Sports: "Will we play a part in it (the title race)? Yes, we will, because we are professional and we want to fight to finish as high as we possibly can.

"We look it and there are six points between us and (second-placed) Chelsea, so there is still a lot to play for and we will be fighting right until the very end.

"But, if I'm asked to give an honest answer, I'd probably say that this year is too soon for us."