After arriving on a short-term deal until the end of the season in the wake of his January transfer window move from Manchester City, Fowler is finding his feet again at Anfield.

There would appear to be nagging doubts at the back of Benitez's mind, however, as the Spaniard claims: "We need to analyse more things."

Maybe those doubts surround Fowler's fitness because the 31-year-old again was not allowed to complete the 90 minutes.

Fowler, though, insists he is easily capable of doing so if only Benitez would afford him the opportunity.

"I feel okay at the moment," confirmed Fowler. "I'm not finishing many games, but it's the manager's prerogative whether he wants to keep me on.

"I feel as though I could stay on for the 90, but the manager has a decision to make, and if he feels I'm not as fit as what I should be then it's up to him."

Fowler adds that all he can do to win over Benitez "is go out and play," and after scoring his third successive goal - and second match-winner after bagging the only goal at Bolton nine days ago - maybe the Reds boss is leaning towards retaining the striker.

Not that Benitez is giving anything away because when asked whether he has come to a decision over Fowler, he replied: "No.

"If I say 'no' it will be difficult for me, but he will understand, and if I say 'yes' it will be good for me, him and the supporters," added Benitez, who celebrated his 46th birthday on Sunday.

"I am not in a hurry, but if he continues to score goals then it will be an easy decision. The more he scores, the more he's likely to stay."

It means Fowler has just four more games - maybe five if the Reds reach the FA Cup final - to convince Benitez he is worth a longer deal.

For now, Benitez can be thankful the uncertainty is not clouding Fowler's mind, adding: "He is a very good professional.

"It's not a problem whether or not he has a contract. He is working hard because he loves Liverpool."