But he returned to score both goals in Liverpool's superb 2-0 win in Roma in the fourth round of the Uefa Cup.

His return to form could not have been better timed with new coach Sven-Goran Eriksson naming his first England squad next week.

The Reds boss said: "I knew Michael was back to his best a week ago.

"I could tell by watching him in training and by the way he performed when he came on as substitute in our last game against Sunderland.

"He had been very impressive and when Michael is in that mood he can score goals and is always a threat.

"Michael was tremendous, he looked very sharp and I'm very pleased for him.

"Robbie (Fowler) also worked extremely hard, very unselfishly and played a real captains' role."

The Frenchman also made a point of praising the fantastic support of the 4,000 Liverpool fans in the stadium, saying: "They were magnificent.

"They have backed us all along and myself and the team were acutely aware of their support.

"We are pleased to have been able to put on a performance like that for them."