Fowler eyes Benfica goal

Robbie Fowler is hoping to break his Liverpool duck against Benfica.

The striker has yet to score in six appearances since returning to the club in January, but could be handed a starting role as Rafa Benitez's side look to overturn their 1-0 deficit from the first leg.

Fowler has had two strikes disallowed for offside in recent weeks, but is optimistic that his luck will change against Benfica.

"I've been here for five or six games and I don't think I or any of the strikers are getting much luck," he remarked.

"To be fair, in the games we've played at Anfield it seems the opposition keeper has a blinder every match.

"I've had two goals taken away in the last minute. I think the first one against Birmingham was the right decision, but after seeing the replay of the one against Charlton on Saturday, it looked a bit harsh.

"I'd give anything to score the all-important goal on Wednesday now. Fingers crossed I'll be involved."

The 30-year-old, who has never started a Champions League game at Anfield, believes that Liverpool will need a similar atmosphere to the one created in last year's semi final against Chelsea in order to progress to the next round.

"I was in the crowd for the Chelsea semi-final last season. That was an incredible atmosphere and I know the Liverpool fans will be wanting something that special again," he explained.

"When they're that noisy they inspire our players and unsettle the opposition.

"Most of the big European nights I've had with Liverpool were in the Uefa Cup, so it means a lot to me to be able to play in the Champions League, but it would be wrong to say this was the reason I came back.

"I always wanted to rejoin Liverpool no matter what, and the fact we've still got a chance to go far in this competition and I can play in it is a welcome bonus as far as I'm concerned. Hopefully I can play my part in helping us to win it again."