Agger: Reds were 'headless chickens'

Defender Daniel Agger says Liverpool must raise their game if they are to avoid yet another season without Champions League football - and can start by not playing like "headless chickens".

The Denmark international pulled no punches in his assessment of his side's goalless draw with Swansea at the weekend - a result that means the Reds have now failed to pick up maximum points in four of six Barclays Premier League outings at Anfield this season.

"Sometimes we looked like headless chickens running around after the ball," Agger said.

"It is far from good enough. Everyone was angry and disappointed - some more than others - but that is the way it is."

Despite their indifferent form, Kenny Dalglish's men are just three points off the Champions League berths in sixth place - but with games against Chelsea and leaders Manchester City looming, Agger admits now is the time to raise the standard.

"If we play like this, we won't do it [qualify for the Champions League]," he said.

"We have got to move up a level or two. I won't say it is not possible, because it is, but it is up to the players.

"We are the only ones who can make a difference. We definitely have to do a lot better."