HE NOSE IT'S TOUGH ... Kop boss Rafa Benite
RAFA BENITEZ reckons Liverpool's Champions League dream is now in ruins.
Back in December, the Kop boss "guaranteed" fourth spot - and qualification for Europe's top competition.
But, after yesterday's draw, he said: "It will be very difficult to finish fourth now.
"It is not in our hands and will depend on other teams' results.
"The difference is maybe a bit too much. It will be very, very difficult so we have to be realistic.
"As a manager, you have to believe and support your team."
A superb showing from Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer and his defence kept Liverpool at bay. They are now stranded six points off fourth place with just four matches to go.
Benitez added: "I'm disappointed because we had plenty of possession and some good chances.
"We could have won 1-0 or 2-0 but just could not score."
Danny Murphy heads the ball under pressure from Alberto Aquilan
Jon Greening takes control
David Ngog and Brede Hangeland battle for possession
David Ngog fluffs a close-range chance
It was a bad day all round for the Reds as star striker Fernando Torres also missed the must-win clash with knee trouble and will visit a specialist today.
Benitez will now just be hoping that Torres can get back to fitness as soon as possible, to try to help Liverpool cling on to their glimmer of hope.
But he did admit the club do not know the extent of the Spanish star's injury.
Benitez added: "He has a problem with his knee and has gone to see a specialist - and we are waiting for the news.
"We don't know how bad it is yet, it depends on what the specialist says tomorrow."
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