Liverpool FC Forum

by **JBG** » Tue Feb 28, 2006 10:08 pm

Reds must buy a world class striker

Feb 28 2006

By Ian Rush, Liverpool Echo

IT'S been obvious from the early stages of the season where Liverpool must improve to get to the next level. When you've only conceded 17 Premiership goals, you would expect your goal difference to be higher than plus 16.

To put it into some kind of perspective, Liverpool have conceded just one goal more than Chelsea this season, but scored 21 less.

I'm certain Rafa Benitez's top priority before next season will be to bring in a striker capable of scoring 20 goals a season. When he's done this, the Reds will be in a much stronger position to challenge Chelsea.

We already know Benitez recognises this because he decided to bring in Robbie Fowler in January, who we're all hoping will rediscover his lethal finishing touch.

I think Robbie has played well since he returned, but so far he's done his best work 20 yards from where he's most dangerous.

I can hardly remember anything falling to him in the penalty box, so it's been understandably frustrating trying to get that elusive goal.

My feeling is the return leg with Benfica next week will suit Robbie perfectly. A European night at Anfield is different to normal fixtures.

The crowd naturally lift the tempo, and when the onus is on Liverpool to keep hunting for goals, it's natural more balls are pumped into the box.

I'm sure Robbie will be licking his lips, anticipating lots of chances against the Portuguese.

I can understand the growing concern heading into that fixture since Liverpool are struggling to score more than one a game.

That's the worry heading into a tie where they must score at least two to win. Benfica didn't particularly frighten Liverpool, but it only takes one moment of quality or a set-piece to make life extremely difficult for Benitez's side.

Naturally the strikers are getting most criticism for the goal return, although I think much of it is unfair.

You can only play to your strengths, and it's clear neither Fernando Morientes, nor Peter Crouch, are prolific goalscorers.

They possess other qualities which can bring something to the team, so those who point the finger at their scoring record are missing the point. You can't make a player something he isn't, no matter how good a coach you are.

I also feel Liverpool's improved defence has as much to do with the workrate of the strikers as much as midfielders and defenders.

There's no side better than Liverpool at defending from the front.

What Benitez lacks with his forward options is variety.

He needs a world class striker before the start of next season. Unfortunately, they're not always easy to find, particularly at the right price.

The only one I can think of for around, say, £12m, is Michael Owen. Given his price and the fact it wouldn't be a gamble to bring him back, I'd be amazed if he isn't on the shortlist this summer.

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Reds must buy a world class striker - Liverpool echo feb 28 2006

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