With Michael Owen out and Emile Heskey struggling with a thigh problem, Fowler can expect another game in the front line in the FA Cup fourth round at Leeds.

If there was ever a rift to be healed between the two men after weeks of transfer speculation and off-field recriminations, it was achieved as Liverpool stormed into the Worthington Cup final - led by a rejuvenated Fowler.

He scored only his second goal since November in the 5-0 hammering of Crystal Palace, and made it clear he is going to fight tooth and nail to be considered more than just the fourth striker in Houllier's front line pecking order.

No Owen, no Heskey, and the stage was set for Fowler to forge a partnership with Jari Litmanen. And Fowler proved his point.

Houllier couldn't have been more pleased.

"Robbie is not leaving the club, I need four strikers and you could see why. Two were not available and two others were playing," he said.

"I was very pleased with him. Emotionally it was very tense because what your captain and your striker needs is confidence and goals.

"He deserved his goal, not only because he set up goals for the others but because he looked very sharp.

"He did so well and I was delighted for him."

Fowler, back for his first full game since his now infamous late night fracas outside a city centre bar, was greeted with a tremendous ovation from the adoring Anfield fans.

The 25-year-old admitted his own delight. He said: "I haven't played recently, so it's nice to be back and scoring.

"I'm a forward and I'm paid to score goals, and I didn't think I had a bad game."