He said: "Gerard must take his final chance to save Liverpool's roller-coaster season by engineering a memorable UEFA Cup run.
"After their desperate recent spell of form, few would bet on Liverpool to achieve European success but they certainly have the talent to win the trophy.
"It's vital that they finish this season with some memorable moments because there have been far more lows than highs. That is why the UEFA Cup will be so important to Liverpool and their whole season.
"Auxerre will be a tough tie but the fact that the first leg is away from home gives them an advantage.
"For all the chances that Owen is missing, his form will come good sooner or later and the UEFA Cup does present the Mersey men with a realistic chance of silverware."