John Arne Riise says Thiago Alcantara could be key to ending Liverpool's dry spell in front of goal.
The Reds were leapfrogged into first place in the Premier League by Manchester United on Tuesday ahead of a huge game between the two sides at Anfield on Sunday.
Jurgen Klopp's men have struggled for goals in recent Premier League matches but have been able to welcome summer signing Thiago back from a long injury absence, with the midfielder starting in the defeat to Southampton earlier this month after coming off the bench in the goalless draw against Newcastle United on December 30.
His appearance against Newcastle was just Thiago's third game for Liverpool since joining from Bayern Munich in the summer and former Reds star Riise believes the Spaniard's return could be crucial against Manchester United.
Speaking to Ladbrokes, Riise argued that Thiago could be as important to the Reds as Bruno Fernandes has proved to be in Manchester United's midfield.
He said: "Goals have dried up in the last few games but I think the return of Thiago Alacantara is going to put an end to that. He's such an important player to this Liverpool side.
"His passes can open up defences and he'll keep things ticking over in the middle of the park, creating chances for his teammates.
"He's the main player the team needs back.
"If he plays on Sunday, he'll be the one who opens up Man United's defence. For United Fernandes is going to be their main man on Sunday - and Thiago is the guy for Liverpool."
