Rickie Lambert is confident he can achieve two important targets over the coming weeks - hit the back of the net for Liverpool and then help the Reds clamber towards the Barclays Premier League summit.

Seven games in 21 days lie ahead now that the international break has been completed, starting at Queens Park Rangers on Sunday, where Brendan Rodgers' side will look to build on a vital 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion in their last fixture.

Then there's the sheer excitement of home and away clashes against Real Madrid for Lambert and co to savour, as well as games against Hull City, Swansea City, Newcastle United and Chelsea in domestic competition.

After eight appearances for the Reds, summer signing Lambert is still in search of a maiden goal - but the striker is adamant that an elusive strike is within touching distance and that he's more than ready to take the chance.

"Obviously we would have liked to have started better and won more points," Lambert told Liverpoolfc.com. "I think most teams would say the same. But we understand the calibre of the teams we've played and we've done OK.

"Now we have a chance to try to push ourselves right up the league. That starts on Sunday against QPR. We've got to start looking to take three points now from each and every game.

"Personally, I've tried to focus on getting myself fit and sharp for when my moment comes. Whether I'm starting, or whether I come off the bench, I want to contribute the way I know I can contribute.

"It's a long, long season and I know there's going to be a lot of opportunities for me coming up. I'm confident now that I'm more than ready for when the opportunity comes."

The 32-year-old went close to hitting his first goal for Liverpool when the Reds hosted West Brom prior to the international break - and while Lambert feels he could have been more clinical against the Baggies, he's confident he'll make no mistake next time around.

"I've missed a few chances, which I look back on and I know I should have scored," admitted the No.9. "But I try not to beat myself up too much. I might have done that in the past a little bit too much.

"I'm trying to relax a little bit more and just believe in my ability, because I know I'm good enough and I'm working hard enough. It's not too far away, the first goal. Whenever that comes and whatever way it comes, it's going to push my confidence even higher."