When it comes to scoring goals at Anfield, there were few better than Robbie Fowler.
171 goals for Liverpool between 1993 and 2001 secured legendary status for the striker long before his sentimental return to the club in 2006 when he went on to score a further 12.
Sat in sixth place in the top scorers in Liverpool’s history, Fowler knows what it takes to succeed as a front man for the Reds.
And as his former club continue to ponder a move for Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke, Fowler is in no doubt about the quality of the Belgian.
“The striker issue is a big thing,” Fowler told the Liverpool Echo.
“We didn’t have anyone who scored 10 Premier League goals last year and I can’t remember the last time that happened at Liverpool.
“It’s important we get a proven goalscorer and of the names being bandied about I’d go for Benteke. I think he’s excellent.
“I know there are other top strikers out there and probably more prolific scorers. But in terms of all-round play – strength, speed, physicality, finishing – I think Benteke could be the main man for Liverpool.”
Benteke naysayers claim that the 6ft 3in forward is just an old school big-man who won’t suit Liverpool’s style of play but Fowler was quick to rubbish such assessments.
“I’ve watched him a lot and he’s not just a targetman,” Fowler added.
“He can hold the ball well and bring others into play but he’s also mobile and keeps defenders on their toes.
“Before he got his injury I was very impressed with him and I was hoping we would sign him then. He had a slow start after getting back fit but under Tim Sherwood his form was superb.”
A big stumbling block in Liverpool’s pursuit of the 24-year-old is the £32m (€45m) pricetag that Villa have slapped on him but Fowler believes that quality is more important than the cost of a player.
“That’s for the clubs to sort out,” he added.
“A big thing is made out of the price but that’s doesn’t concern me.
“If a player is good enough, he’s good enough and I believe Benteke is.”
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