'Our belief is back for remaining games'
Lucas Leiva claims the victory at Blackburn Rovers has given Liverpool the belief to attack their final seven league games of the season, beginning with Newcastle United this evening.
A battling display at Ewood Park last Wednesday earned a 1-0 result in the FA Cup and lifted spirits within the squad following the disappointment of successive Barclays Premier League defeats.
The Reds can look forward to a semi-final against Aston Villa at Wembley on Sunday, but before then they must attempt to get back on course in their chase for the top four.
Newcastle visit Anfield tonight and Lucas feels the restoration of confidence should help Brendan Rodgers' side approach the contest with the target of maximum points.
"We have to win the game," the Brazilian midfielder told Sky Sports.
"We are at home and after two defeats, it's important to get three points and start winning in the last seven games, starting with Newcastle.
"It's going to be hard but after the FA Cup game, it has given us a lot of belief to get back to winning ways on Monday night."
Goals are usually guaranteed when Liverpool welcome the Magpies to Merseyside and the Reds also boast a formidable record against the side from the north east at Anfield.
A night game provides the chance for Kopites to gather under the floodlights and Lucas sees the subtle shift in atmosphere as another potential positive.
"It changes the atmosphere a little bit; people are more excited, it's a reminder of European games," he added.
"It's going to be a good night and after two defeats we just have to perform and get the three points."