Liverpool's hopes of fourth spot fading fast

Liverpool's chances of playing in the Champions League next season receded further on Sunday when a 1-1 draw at Birmingham City left them four points adrift of fourth spot in the Premier League.                                           

Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool the lead two minutes into the second half but they were pegged back nine minutes later when Liam Ridgewell headed the home side level.                       

Liverpool remain in sixth place with 55 points from 33 games played with Tottenham Hotspur in fifth place on 58 from 32 and Manchester City, who are now favourites to grab fourth after a 6-1 thrashing of Burnley on Saturday, on 59 from 32.                  

Wigan Athletic remain in relegation trouble after squandering a first-half lead to lose 2-1 at Fulham, who like Liverpool are in Europa League, quarter-final action next week.                      

Jason Scotland put Wigan in front but Fulham, who rested leading striker Bobby Zamora, replied through Stefano Okaka and Brede Hangeland. Wigan are four points above third from bottom Hull City having played a game more.                                           

West Ham United, who are above the relegation only on goal difference after six consecutive defeats, are away at Europe-chasing Everton in a late kickoff.