Liverpool legend Ian Rush has welcomed the return of Robbie Fowler to Anfield and believes it is an inspired move by Rafael Benitez. Like Fowler, Rush made an emotional return to Anfield after his one season spell in Italy with Juventus, and said his return will give Liverpool a major boost in their quest for honours this season.

"Of course, they say you should never go back," retorted Rush. "And, to be quite honest, the situation is not quite the same as when I returned after a year at Juventus.

"I like to think I was still in my prime whereas Robbie is 30 and not exactly a 90-minute player these days.

"But Rafa Benitez is not stupid. He knows Liverpool desperately need a finisher - never more so than last Sunday when they outplayed Manchester United at Old Trafford and still lost."

"Bring Robbie on for 20 or 30 minutes and he can make all the difference. The opposition know that as well.

"Robbie can give Liverpool an extra 10 points a season - the difference between finishing above or below United. Maybe even catching Chelsea."