Liverpool legend Ian Rush believes that the Reds can blow the race for Champions League places wide open by beating Arsenal.

If Steven Gerrard's men beat the Gunners, the difference between Liverpool and Arsenal will be reduced to a mere two points. And Rush believes that anything can happen from there.

"It would be wrong to get carried away on the back of a comfortable win in the Merseyside derby extended our unbeaten run to seven but, suddenly, there is a slight chance that third place - never mind fourth - is up for grabs again," Rush was quoted as saying on the club's official website liverpoolfc.tv.

"Much, of course, depends on the outcome of Wednesday night's tussle at the Emirates Stadium and, despite losing to Manchester United and Chelsea in their last two games, Arsenal will start favourites," he continued.

"They are a terrific side, probably the best footballing team in the Barclays Premier League.

"Liverpool, on the other hand, have shown how capable they are of digging in to grind out victories and the display against Everton was all about effort and commitment."

Rafael Benitez's squad will arrive in London on a high - having beaten Everton in a bruising Merseyside derby on Saturday. .

"People were saying it was a typical bad tempered derby, full of nastiness and spite, but I thought it was great to watch and despite Everton starting well, I actually felt Liverpool made them look very ordinary," he said.

Rush believes that this game was just the morale booster the team needed

"If you can't take confidence from such a game, I honestly don't know what more you could ask for but the suspicion remains that Liverpool are now building up a head of steam at just the right time."

He was also full of praise for Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt, who scored the only goal of the match in the derby win to notch up 50 goals for the Anfield outfit.

"Dirk can feel hugely satisfied in reaching 50 goals for Liverpool - but more satisfied with the overall performances," added Rush.

"The one thing you can never doubt about Kuyt is the commitment he will show and that was evident even when his form had dipped earlier in the year.

"His goal against Everton was just reward for all his hard work and every team needs a player of his ilk if they are going to be successful.

"A lot of responsibility was placed on his shoulders when it emerged that Fernando Torres would face a lengthy spell out.

"Kuyt, though, has risen to the challenge, as proven by the goals he has scored - and another tomorrow would go down a real treat."

With recent results including the draw between Aston Villa and Tottenham going their way, Rush is confident of Liverpool's chances of securing a Champions League spot.

"Fourth place is the minimum objective and the fact we have got a foothold in there now, with results going in our favour at the weekend, could prove to be crucial."