Liverpool's dependable Republic of Ireland defender Steve Finnan accepts there is a glaring contrast between the Anfield club's form in Europe and the Premiership.

But Finnan just hopes the Kop sees the best of Liverpool tomorrow when they bid to clinch top spot in Champions League group C at home to PSV Eindhoven.

The Dutch side are on equal points with Liverpool in the group, and like their hosts have also qualified for the last 16.

Finnan says: "We are aware that our form in Europe is fine but we can't seem to manage that level in the Premier League, and in particular away from home. If we knew why that was we would have solved it by now. It has not quite clicked at the moment while we know we have been in good form at home.

"The situation causes plenty of talk, understandably, but if you assess our games we have plenty of possession and chances but the results have not really happened.

"We have played well in games, should have won, but it hasn't been happening."

Now he adds: "Now we are looking forward to another great European night at Anfield, with the fans behind us, and if we do that it will certainly boost our confidence generally.

"PSV are a good team, they are doing well in their own league and we know it will be tight because it certainly was when we got a draw in Eindhoven. We did a good job in Holland and it was deserved. So we know if we do the right things in this match it will see us through.

"We have to start picking up more points away from home, there is a sharp contrast between the European table and the Premiership. But we are only five points off third place so it is not as bad as people make out.

"Our home form is always good but away from home for the past few years in Europe it has been fine, but it seems harder in domestic matches. Maybe there is a confidence problem, you lose a couple and there is pressure to get a result."

Liverpool's focus has not been helped by constant speculation of a takeover bid. On Wednesday the club's board meet to discuss rival bidders vying to control of the Merseyside giant.

It will be the first meeting without long-term director Noel White, who resigned last month after criticising manager Rafael Benitez and questioning the future direction of the club.

Much of what White said will still need to be addressed when directors meet to discuss the chances of either George Gillett - owner of the Montreal Canadians ice hockey team - or Dubai Holdings winning control of Anfield in what would be a £500million investment.

But activity behind the scenes does not worry Benitez, who said: "We hear about takeover talk but we all focus on our games.

"On the playing side we have to improve our form and I know the board will do the best for the club."