Blind optimism is part of the armoury of every die hard Liverpool fan.

Oblivious of our rival's strengths we perennially believe that the promised land is just around the corner only to have fallen flat on our faces by Christmas. We must realise that there are six teams vying for four positions. With the two Manchester clubs looking pretty ominous and cash-rich Chelsea now being coached by Mourinho, a straight thinking fan would see these three as having Champions League places in their back pockets. This leaves the North London sides and the two Merseyside outfits gunning for the one position.

At White Hart Lane the main talking point is the future of Gareth Bale. Going on last season's form Spurs' top four ambitions would be severely dented with the loss of their mercurial Welshman. For now he seems settled in London for at least one more season and as more forward additions seem likely they will be a real threat yet again. However Tottenham's Achilles heel is their fragile mind-set given that they have been pipped at the post by their local rivals for the past two seasons. Their Europa League participation can only be detrimental to their Champions League aspirations.

For the past sixteen seasons Arsenal have been mainstays in Europe's top club competition. Arsene Wenger has consistently found the formula to get the Gunners over the line. With money to spend this summer, reportedly 100 million, Arsenal have the wherewithal to bolster and better last seasons last day top four qualification. While this may seem a given, the Frenchman's track record in marquee signings suggests otherwise. His reluctance to spend big has left Arsenal trailing behind their rivals in recent seasons. With no guarantee that this money will be spent wisely the Gunners are hardly nailed on certainties.

With our Merseyside rivals having bettered us in the last two seasons it would be fool-hardy to dismiss Everton's credentials. The ex-Wigan boss, Roberto Martinez, inherits a team with some top quality individuals, Fellaini, Baines, Mirallas and Jagielka. Much will depend on keeping these players at Goodison and the Spaniards ability to purchase top performers. The ability of David Moyes to bring the best out of his limited squad has been a constant theme during the Scots tenure at Everton. This quality will be a major loss notwithstanding the fresh ideas his successor will bring, even though it would seem Moyes will be a hard act to follow.

For the past three or four summers Anfield has seen a series of comings and goings both at player and managerial level and this summer will be no different regarding the former. Liverpool's postChristmas form has been of top four quality with the additions of Coutinho and Sturridge. The jury is still out on last summers purchases of Borini and Allen as both have had injury ridden seasons. How Liverpool cope with the loss of long-serving Jamie Carragher will be an important consideration also. Rodgers scouting team and well researched potential signings offer well founded hope to the Merseysiders. It is imperative that Liverpool add a top quality central defender, bolster the midfield,

and acquire a top quality forward given Suarez' imminent departure. With the combined transfer fees of Aspas and Alberto being offset by Andy Carroll's departure to West Ham, and the arrival of Mignolet could hastening Reina's potential departure from Anfield. The signing of Papadopoulos is dependent on Skrtel leaving, while the 20 million kitty looks likely to be spent on Armenian attacker Henrikh Mkhitarayan the Reds look stronger for this upcoming season. The Suarez soundings from Uruguay need to be curtailed quickly. He could fast become an object of ridicule in some quarters if he persists in publicizing his desire to leave the club that has staunchly backed him in his darkest moments. This is a test of leadership in our club and its outcome will set down a template for future progression. Liverpool must be seen to act strongly and decisively in this instance. How Rodgers new signings fit in and a swift conclusion to the Suarez dilemma will be a determining factor in the Reds finishing position.

A seat at Europe's top table is the holy grail for all those seeking a share of the millions on offer. The vast investments made by clubs to share this wealth puts added pressures on club's managers and players. Clever investment, strategic decision making and squad strength will be influential on who claims the coveted fourth spot. Each close season brings its hopes and dreams to Liverpool fans and 2013/14 is no different. Walk on.

John Cullinane