Rio Ferdinand says Jurgen Klopp should be banging down FSG's door in order to sign a new centre-back this month.
Liverpool's defensive injury crisis went from bad to worse when Fabinho was ruled out of Thursday's victory over Tottenham Hotspur before Joel Matip was replaced by Nat Phillips at half-time.
Fabinho's absence was chalked up to a minor muscle injury but it is unclear if the Brazilian, one of the Reds' key players this season having been in imperious form since moving from midfield to defence to cover for the long-term absences of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, will be fit to face West Ham on Sunday.
Matip is almost certainly out, with Jurgen Klopp confirming post-match that the centre-back had suffered an ankle ligament injury.
Speaking on BT Sport, Ferdinand said the Reds will be taking a huge gamble that could derail their season if they do not sign a centre-back, particularly with midfielders like Jordan Henderson having to cover in defence.
He said: "If Jurgen Klopp’s not banging down the door of the owner, I’d be amazed.
"It’s a huge gamble if they don’t invest - either purchase a centre-back or get one in on loan - it has the potential to derail their season.
"I think it’s that important for this team.
"Not having these centre-backs in place doesn’t only affect the centre-back area, but you’re taking players out of the midfield area who are integral to this team’s success."
After learning of Matip's injury, Ferdinand was even more convinced that Klopp would be moving for a centre-back.
He said: "He has to, surely?"
