Rafael Benitez believes Liverpool's exit from the Champions League could give them a crucial edge in the title race.

The Reds, who are still without injured captain Steven Gerrard, can move to the top of the Premier League for at least 24 hours if they beat Arsenal tonight, with leaders Manchester United in action against Portsmouth tomorrow.

Both United and third-placed Chelsea — who knocked Liverpool out in last week's stunning quarter-final at Stamford Bridge — are still involved in Europe along with Arsenal, who are without forwards Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin van Persie at Anfield.

Benitez said: “Hopefully the other teams around us are distracted by the Champions League. When you are playing in two massive competitions it can be difficult and so we have to be ready if other teams make a mistake.

“We've had a full week to prepare for Arsenal which has been good because we have been able to look at all of the small details.

“It will be hard for Arsenal to lose fourth place in the table now so I think their main emphasis will be on the Champions League. They have to play all of the top three so it would send a good message if we can beat them tonight.”