From the echo.
We need a lethal weapon up front Jan 24 2006
By Ian Rush, Liverpool Echo
RAFA BENITEZ won't need to watch a re-run of the defeat to Manchester United to know where his side came unstuck.
There's still a vacancy in his squad for a lethal finisher. Until the Reds find one, there's always a danger they'll suffer in fixtures such as this.
When you go to Old Trafford, you know chances are going to be few and far between. That's where true quality shows.
Unfortunately, Liverpool squandered opportunities which came their way.
It's not particularly pleasant to point the finger at individuals in such circumstances because no-one deliberately tries to miss a chance.
But there are times when you just have to acknowledge the class didn't show when it mattered in front of goal.
Benitez won't be surprised by this, of course.
We all know he tried to sign Michael Owen in the summer, and no strikers have arrived since then.
There's no question Liverpool still look short in this area. Against lesser sides, it may not appear so apparent.
But in the toughest venues against the best defenders, you simply can't afford to carry anyone.
I suspect it's too late in the month for anyone to join for the rest of the season.
In fact, one of the more natural finishers has temporarily left the club to improve his fitness.
Neil Mellor is the kind of poacher who'll always pop up with a goal and it's a shame he's been out for so long.
I worked with Mellor when I was at Liverpool. Appearances are deceptive with him because of his style of play, but I'll bet he'll score plenty for Wigan between now and May.
Despite the defeat to United, Liverpool remain in contention for the runners-up spot.
But if they're to close the gap to Chelsea before the start of next season, a goalscorer must be at the top of the recruitment list.