Houllier to put Owen on the spot for goals

GERARD HOULLIER will make just one concession to Michael Owen’s goal drought — he will ask the Liverpool star whether he wants to continue taking penalties.

But the Anfield boss knows the answer he will get from the front man who refuses to hide as he goes through a personal crisis that has still to see him score from open play this season.

As the Champions League rears into focus again with Liverpool’s home clash with Basle, it is clear from Houllier’s words that the days of Owen being rested to restore his confidence are over.