Brendan Rodgers’s worst nightmares are coming true!
Not only are Liverpool seeking a replacement behind his back—if their reported courting of Carlo Ancelotti is anything to go by—they are also set to be without one of their star men for the best part of two weeks.
Despite only scoring two goals in six league outings to date, Benteke has been a powerful presence in attack, and has made a good impression on the Liverpool faithful.
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How will Rodgers replace the hitman for the outings against Carlisle, Aston Villa, FC Sion and possibly the derby against Everton? Here are five options for the under-pressure Northern Irish coach?
Danny Ings
After a series of industrious displays, Ings has shown potential that he can successfully make the step up from Burnley to Liverpool, and Benteke’s injury may be his opportunity to build on his one Reds league goal to date.
Divock Origi
Origi struggled last season at LOSC Lille, and despite a handful of good performances, is yet to truly convince as a leading man. He’s only featured for 75 minutes in the league so far this season, and it remains to be seen if he has done enough to earn Rodgers’s confidence.
Danny Sturridge
Following a long injury layoff, Sturridge made his comeback against Norwich, featuring for a fairly undistinguished hour against the Canaries. Rodgers would surely have preferred to have broken his star man in slowly, but may need to play his hand after Benteke’s injury.
Roberto Firminio
There have been flashes of excellence from Firminio since the Brazil forward completed his move to Anfield during the summer, but he is yet to either score or contribute an assist. Typically a supporting player rather than the leading frontman, could Firmino really replace Benteke’s presence in attack?
Philippe Coutinho
While never an out-and-out striker, Coutinho has featured as a forward in the past, and certainly contribute as a striker. However, should Rodgers turn to the Brazilian for the upcoming fixtures, he may opt to employ Coutinho as a false nine.