Liverpool aiming for Champions League quarterfinal, says Gerrard

Liverpool is back in the Champions League after suffering through a five-year absence, and captain Steven Gerrard wants to ensure the experience isn't short-lived.

Speaking ahead of the Reds' opening match against Bulgarian side Ludogorets on Tuesday, the veteran midfielder discussed the disappointment of watching Europe's premier competition from afar in recent years.

"When you aren't involved, there is a big jealousy," Gerrard told the Daily Mail. "It's the best competition to play in at club level. There's a hole there when you are out of it."

The Englishman went on to outline his goals for the team's Champions League campaign.

"We understand that we are not one of the favourites. There are some big hitters that people will be tipping to win it, but the message from me, as captain of this team, is that we are not making up the numbers. No way.

"We have got such a big advantage over two legs, with Anfield, that other teams haven't got. Let me tell you right now: you come to Anfield, you're getting a terribly hard 90 minutes. And we are going to make it even harder for you.

"I've got a lot of confidence in (manager Brendan Rodgers) and in the squad. If we go out in the group stages, or the last 16, we will be majorly, majorly disappointed. We want to progress. We want to go as far as we can.

"This can't be a one-off. This can't be, 'Isn't it great where we are?' This isn't a reward for finishing second last year. This is where Liverpool should be - and should be consistently. It's the responsibility of myself and the players to give it our best crack."

Liverpool are expected to emerge (as runner-up) from a group that also includes defending champions Real Madrid and FC Basel.

[H/T: ESPN FC]