DIRK KUYT is refusing to give up the fight for Europe after helping to drag Liverpool back to within four points of the top five.

The Dutchman’s penalty set the Merseysiders on their way to victory at Sunderland on Sunday as they cemented sixth place in the table by taking their return under temporary manager Kenny Dalglish to 20 Barclays Premier League points from a possible 30.

They still trail fifth-placed Tottenham, who have a game in hand, by four points, but with Spurs still to come to Anfield Kuyt has vowed not to give up the fight as Liverpool attempt to atone for their Europa League exit last week.

Asked if qualification for Europe was a realistic ambition, Kuyt said: “What’s realistic? We have to take it from game to game.”

He added: “Now we have to be ready for West Brom and to get another three points, and we will see what happens.”

The fact that Liverpool are even in a position to mount a challenge is testament to the job Dalglish has done since taking over at the helm in January, and calls for his permanent appointment is growing by the day.

Dalglish insisted after the Sunderland game that he was relaxed about the situation, and dismissed reports he had either asked for a four-year deal or been offered a two-year contract.

Kuyt said: “As soon as things are ready, it is better for everyone. We saw that when the new owners came in. The manager has done a great job so far. We have played really well.

“It’s disappointing that we were knocked out of Europe, but the way we responded, not only the players, but the management, was terrific.”

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman believes Dalglish should be handed the manager’s job on a permanent basis as soon as possible.