'Credit to Lambert for battling back'
Rickie Lambert has earned personal recognition from former Liverpool striker John Aldridge for the commitment and perseverance that brought the Englishman two goals in three games last week.
The No.9 ended his wait for a much-desired first Reds goal at Crystal Palace when he pounced on a fine Adam Lallana pass to convert from close range on an otherwise forgettable afternoon at Selhurst Park.
That maiden strike was followed up by a crucial equaliser in Bulgaria, where Lambert took advantage of defensive hesitance to nod home and help his side gain a foothold en route to a 2-2 Champions League draw with Ludogorets Razgrad.
Only the woodwork denied the 32-year-old another goal on Saturday when he leapt high and sent a looping header onto the crossbar; yet it still became an assist as Glen Johnson sent in the rebound and secured a 1-0 result over Stoke City.
Among the impressed observers of his performances has been Aldridge, who believes Lambert's contribution in recent matches may prove to be vital for the Reds' campaign.
"Rickie Lambert would run through brick walls for Liverpool," the man that notched 63 goals in 104 appearances during his own time at Anfield wrote in the Liverpool Echo.
"After months of struggle and trying too hard, Rickie has scored twice in three games and came within inches of heading the winner against Stoke City on Saturday.
"I am delighted that he is starting to find his form and show the Liverpool fans what he is all about. Like Liverpool have to, Lambert battled through his own tough patch and the Reds may look back at his header in Sofia last week as a huge goal in their season."