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STEVEN GERRARD has challenged Liverpool FC to keep up the pressure on the sides above them in the chase for European qualification.

And the Reds skipper says his side face seven “cup finals” between now and the end of the season, as they look to force their way into the Premier League's top five.

Liverpool's 2-1 win at Aston Villa on Sunday , secured courtesy of Gerrard's second-half penalty, moved them to within five points of fifth-placed Arsenal, who occupy the final European spot.

And the captain insists there will be no easing off from the Reds during their final seven games. Liverpool face home fixtures with Chelsea, in fourth, and sixth-placed Everton before the end of the season, whilst several of their rivals have games against each other.

“We need to keep the pressure up for that European place,” said Gerrard. “A lot of the teams above us need to play each other, so we’re hoping there are a few slip-ups and we can capitalise.

“It’s important that we keep on taking maximum points. The manager told us after the game that every game is like a cup final now.

“There is a little short season now of seven games and we just need to make sure that we play to our maximum in every game because if we don’t, like at Southampton, we know we will be punished. We need to use the Villa game as a level of performance from which to continue.”

Gerrard took his goal tally for the season to 10 with his calmly-converted spot-kick at Villa Park, with Reds boss Brendan Rodgers effusive in his praise for the 32-year-old afterwards.

Rodgers has said that a new, extended contract for the midfielder is “on the agenda”, but Gerrard insists there is no rush.

“It’s not a priority at the moment,” he said. “The important thing is to finish the season strongly and feeling good.

“I’m happy the club have mentioned a new contract, but it’s not important. Is it something for the summer? You’re better asking the manager and the board that question.”

Gerrard also took time to praise Philippe Coutinho, stating that the Brazilian's quality in the final third makes him a joy to play alongside.

“If you look at the weight of his pass for the first goal, then I think that just sums him up,” he said. “People can talk about how skilful he is and how quick his feet are, but to deliver a pass into the final third to create a goal, that shows what quality he has.

“If you have players like Coutinho and (Luis) Suarez in your team, then you win games.

“When you have attacking players of the quality of Coutinho, (Stewart) Downing and Suarez, if they play close to their level you know you are going to score goals against teams and inevitably you are going to win more games.

“Ever since I’ve been a player you always find it easier to play alongside quality players. All the way through, Michael Owen, (Fernando) Torres, Suarez, Coutinho, they are the easiest players to play with.”