Tuesday, April 25 2006 14:54 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Liverpool (England): Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard warned Tuesday (Apr 25, 2006) that his side are on the rise and will be better equipped than ever to challenge Chelsea for next year's Premiership title.

"We have progressed a lot in the last year," said Gerrard. "The gap was 35 points last season, this time around we are better than half that.

"We have got a fantastic manager (Rafael Benitez), who is going to continue to build.

"But Chelsea is a fantastic team. Manchester United and Arsenal are going to come back strong next year too.

"Tottenham have a great young side as well. The Premiership is getting more and more exciting."

England midfielder Gerrard, 25, insisted he has no thoughts about leaving the club as Liverpool prepare to face West Ham Wednesday in a dress rehearsal of the FA Cup final.