Evans: Why we must keep believing

Brendan Rodgers' side undeservedly suffered a 2-0 defeat against second-place rivals Chelsea on Sunday, a result which tightened the scenario at the summit with two fixtures remaining this season.

Despite the loss - the Reds' first in the league during the calendar year - the Northern Irishman's team maintained their position in top spot. Evans, meanwhile, retained his optimistic mood.

He told Liverpoolfc.com: "I know everybody is disappointed - the fans, Brendan and the players - with the way it went on Sunday, but the fact is we are still not out of it.

"We didn't get the result we wanted but we still have a chance of winning the Premier League.

"You've got to be positive on all sides; there are still two games to go for us and three for Manchester City, but all of the teams have showed this season that they are capable of dropping points.

"City have it in their own hands but we always knew they were lurking in that position. I'm confident we will win our next two games and I believe 86 points will win it for us."

The next challenge facing Rodgers' charges is a journey south to Selhurst Park, where Liverpool will take on in-form Crystal Palace in an evening kick-off this Monday.

Though their attacking exploits were thwarted by Chelsea at the weekend, Evans expects the manager to continue with the expansive style which has reaped rich rewards in recent months.

"If Daniel Sturridge is fit I think he will start against Palace but apart from that I don't see any need to make a lot of changes," the 65-year-old added.

"What's been good about us all season is we are attacking and that's the way we play, so we've just got to stick to how we have played all season.

"That's what has made us what we are this season and it is great to watch."

Before the encounter gets underway at Palace on Monday, Manchester City will have already played - Manuel Pellegrini's outfit must attempt to overcome the Reds' Merseyside neighbours, Everton.

The Blues have a top four spot and Champions League qualification on their agenda; Evans, therefore, has hope that another twist could occur in the Premier League run-in.

He added: "Everton have been fantastic this season under Roberto Martinez and have played really well. Everton are capable of beating anybody in this league.

"They are not doing us favours; ultimately if they got a positive result then we would accept it nicely, but they are playing for themselves and their supporters.

"They are still fighting for fourth place and, although that's becoming harder for them, it's not impossible. They will do the right thing for Everton and try and win the game.

"As I say, it's not over. We didn't have our best day at the office on Sunday, it was difficult, but we have got two games to go and we should still be very positive.

"City haven't been perfect all year and we are not out of it. We shouldn't be down and thinking the worst. We have had a great season but we are still close to winning the title."