Liverpool's Xavier confident of Euro fortunes

Liverpool, England - Portuguese international Abel Xavier insists Liverpool's Champions League dream is not over - despite picking up just two points from their first three games.

Xavier, who made his European debut for the Reds in the 0-0 draw with Galatasaray at Anfield on Tuesday, feels that Liverpool can still qualify for the quarterfinals of the tournament.

"We had three or four clear chances and if we had scored the first one we would have won three or four nil. But we are capable of winning in Istanbul," he said.

"We showed we can penetrate them and cause danger. We can definitely win that game and we can go to the next round in the Champions League."

Liverpool are bottom of group B, three points behind group leaders Barcelona. Roma and Galatasaray are both on three points.

Xavier's display in defence should ensure his selection against former club Everton in the Merseyside derby on Saturday.

Despite the abuse expected to be aimed at him by Everton fans angered by his switch across the city, Xavier is playing down his part in the clash.

"It's a big game for everyone on Saturday," he said.

"I'm looking forward to playing Everton. I was happy to be there and I respect them. But at the moment I'm pleased to be with Liverpool.

"It is just a game for me. I am more concerned with getting the three points as the league is tight at the top."

Xavier, 29, who joined Liverpool at the end of last month for £800 000, was only the fourth player to cross from Goodison to Anfield in the last 66 years. - Reuters