Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano believes that Liverpool can win the Premier League this season.

The 29-year-old, who played for the Reds between 2007 and 2010, has said that he has been impressed with Brendan Rodgers's side this campaign.

"I think they will finish in the top four this season," the Daily Star quotes the Argentine as saying. "I have seen a lot of their games and I am very impressed with the way they are playing.

"I have watched Liverpool closely since leaving the club and this season you can see they have improved a lot. They are playing with more confidence and are doing very well. Is the message to them, 'Come and join us in the Champions League?' Yes, yes. I think so.

"They are not only doing well, they are fighting for the title. Fighting to the end. They are not many points behind so they can win the Premier League. Why not? There is more than half the season gone and look where Liverpool are lying in the table. They are fighting for the title as well as a top-four finish."

Liverpool, who are currently seven points behind leaders Chelsea in fourth place in the league table, will host Swansea City at Anfield on Sunday.