Benitez delight as strikers hit form
Mar 20 2006
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo
RAFA BENITEZ hopes the rebirth of his strikers will prove decisive in his attempts to overcome his 'bogey' side in English football.
Benitez is yet to enjoy victory against Birmingham City since taking over at Liverpool.
Steve Bruce's side are the only Premiership side which has never been beaten by Benitez, but the hoodoo must end if the Reds are to maintain their hopes of winning silverware this season.
Bruce has won two and drawn two against Liverpool in the past two years, including a draw home and away during this campaign.
And although the men from St Andrews are enjoying a torrid time in the Premiership, Liverpool will be taking nothing for granted in their bid to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2001.
Robbie Fowler is cup-tied and won't be involved for tomorrow's trip, but Fernando Morientes comes back into contention having been rested for the impressive win at Newcastle.
After their much publicised goal drought, Liverpool's strikers have now scored five in two games, with all the forwards getting on the scoresheet.
"It's important for them and important for the team," said a relieved Benitez.
"The strikers now have more confidence."
In fact, having not scored in his first 18 games for Liverpool, Peter Crouch has completely turned his goal return around.
In his last 23 appearances, he's been on the mark 10 times.
A successful change of formation reaped its reward in the North East yesterday, but Benitez is likely to revert to his favoured 4-4-2 in the Midlands, allowing Steve Finnan to return.
The impressive performances of Daniel Agger, Steve Warnock and Jan Kromkamp have improved the manager's options, although he suggested the switch to a 3-4-2-1 was a temporary measure.
Benitez is still checking on the fitness of John Arne Riise, while Momo Sissoko is also on the verge of a remarkable return to the squad.
Tomorrow's FA Cup clash is likely to be a little too soon for both players however.
