Kenny Dalglish feels that Liverpool and Southampton will have to strengthen their respective squads in the January transfer window if they are maintain their challenge for a European place.
The Saints are currently one place below the Reds in third in the Premier League, and the former Liverpool boss has urged both sides to open the chequebook in the New Year.
"It has got to the stage now where, if they buy in January, I think both might have a real chance of staying up there," Dalglish told The Mirror.
"We know that the top teams will all strengthen. Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City will all buy in the next window, so, if they can – if finances allow it – then Liverpool and Southampton need to do the same.
"If they do that, the rewards could be considerable. They have got themselves in position. Now they have to try to seize their opportunity."
Dalglish's former side travel to local rivals Everton after the international break, while Mauricio Pochettino's men are away to league-leaders Arsenal.
