Alan Shearer is confident that Kenny Dalglish is the right manager to lead Liverpool to future success, despite a disappointing Premier League record.

The Scotsman has come under pressure recently after the Reds claimed just one win in their last six league fixtures, diminishing the Merseyside club's hopes of reaching a Champions League qualification spot.

Despite poor league form, Shearer believes that clinching the Carling Cup trophy and remaining in contention for the FA Cup final will keep Dalglish's job safe.

"That is disappointing, but you have to be careful in criticising Kenny," Shearer told BBC Sport. "Liverpool entered three competitions this season and they could win two.

"There is a big gap there and Liverpool are not going to get in the top four this season but it still could turn out to be a good one for them. It's there for everyone to see that their league form has not been good enough, but if they go home with two cups then that would certainly be progress, and surely that is what it is all about for Liverpool at the moment?

"If you were to ask an Arsenal fan which they would rather have, the FA Cup and the Carling Cup in the trophy cabinet or a finish in the top four, then that is a tough question for them. Of course Liverpool want both. Next season will be all about winning trophies and getting in the top four, because that's the size of club they are."

Liverpool are currently 13 points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.