West Brom 0-0 Liverpool
by Simon Williams
at the Hawthorns

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admitted on Saturday that he will be looking to strengthen his attacking options during the summer transfer window.

A goalless draw against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns was a setback as the Reds push for Champions League football next season.

The first half failed to entertain with Steven Gerrard, who was making his 500th league appearance, coming the closest to opening the scoring with a free-kick that sailed just over the bar.

The game came to life after the break with Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson bringing the best out of keeper Boaz Myhill while Jordon Ibe hit the post for Liverpool.

The home side saw James Morrison’s header cleared off the line before substitute Callum McManaman had a low shot blocked by Simon Mignolet.

But it is the lack of a goal threat following the sale of Luis Suarez to Barcelona last summer, as well as the lengthy absence of Daniel Sturridge due to injury, that has left Liverpool struggling to build on the success of last season.

“It’s clear we need a goal threat for next season so there’s going to be a whole raft of players that I’m sure will be looked at,” said Rodgers. “It will then be up to the club whether they are affordable or not.”

Reports in recent days have suggested that Dutch superstar Memphis Depay, who is also a target for rivals Manchester United, has held talks with the Anfield club, something that Rodgers refused to be drawn on.

He said: “I cant confirm either way. You know me, in terms of speculation on players, but the kid’s a very talented player. But I wouldn’t like to confirm either way.”

Rodgers also admitted that there will be players leaving the club as he looks to once again mount a challenge for a top four finish next season.

“I think the natural process for some players will be that they want to move on,” he said. 

“We’ve had some for a couple of years that haven’t played as much and when you are a footballer you want to play games.

“I’ve got a great squad of players but we know to regain what we had from last season we need to be able to finish off a lot of our good approach play. That’s key for us and if we can do that then we can really kick on again next season.”