This wise statement was made by English football player James Milner, who is renowned for his loyalty and versatility, in one of his interviews. He was alluding to the past and standing of Liverpool Football Club in the football community.

Liverpool has a long history of participating in both domestic and international competitions at the top level. With multiple appearances in prestigious competitions like the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, the team has been a steady force in English football for many years. Milner's comment is in line with Liverpool's reputation as one of the best teams in terms of earning berths in major tournaments.

Being among the final four teams remaining from a vast field of competitors is an incredible accomplishment that demonstrates a team's fortitude, resiliency, and proficiency. This ranking shows that the team has distinguished itself from a great number of rivals by advancing through the difficult play-off or group stages. Being in this position several times in its history demonstrates Liverpool's unwavering commitment to excellence.

When Milner discusses finishing in the top four as a desirable objective for any team, he employs a straightforward but powerful metaphor. It's similar to trying to be one of the few trees that stand out in a dense forest, where thousands of trees compete, but only a few are able to do so because of their special traits and tenacity. This role offers the chance to pursue even greater honors in addition to great pride and recognition.

Milner's remark is essentially a recognition of Liverpool's standing as a consistent candidate for the highest football awards. It emphasizes how being a member of that select group of teams requires more than just winning one game; it also requires continuously putting up such a strong showing year after year, season after season.