Gerrard wants Morientes at Liverpool

Liverpool must buy Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes, says captain Steven Gerrard.

Spanish hitman Morientes is keen to move to Anfield but Kop boss Rafa Benitez is unhappy at the £7million asking price.

But Gerrard says: "He's a great player. He scores goals in the league, in cup competitions and also in the Champions League."

"I don't think he'd play for us in Europe this season but we'd be getting a great player."

"He'd settle in here as we have Spanish coaches, a Spanish manager and three or four Spanish players."

"Rafael Benitez knows what he wants and he knows how to strengthen the squad he's got and if the right players become available at the right price I am sure we will strengthen."

"It would certainly be nice to see a few new faces in January to freshen things up."