Glenn Roeder is facing a striker crisis ahead of Saturday's daunting trip to league leaders Liverpool.

As well as Fredi Kanoute's long-term groin problem, reports suggest that Paolo Di Canio may be unable to make the journey north.

The Italian skipper is looking at a short lay-off to rest a groin niggle, having already played in spite of an illness at Sunderland.

Specialists have told him to rest for three or four days or risk a longer lay-off -- something he can ill-afford as he pushes for a contract extension.

Meanwhile Kanoute could miss out for several more weeks as he struggles to bounce back from the muscle tear he suffered at Chelsea on September 28.

"We are already out looking now for another striker that will give us a physical presence," Roeder said.

Published Thursday October 31, 2002

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