Phil Thompson has criticised Liverpool's decision to cash in on Rhian Brewster this season, as opposed to 25-year-old Divock Origi.

Speaking to Paddy Power (via Daily Mail), the ex-Anfield man said: "On the outgoings, I'm disappointed that they decided to let Rhian Brewster go. I'd like him to have stayed. I can see some of the reasons why, but if you were asking me whether to go with Brewster or Divock Origi, for me, it'd be Origi going."

Sheffield United came knocking for the young talent with an impressive offer of £23.5million (via BBC Sport). Michael Edwards certainly conducted another transfer masterclass given the fact Brewster had never made a Premier League appearance for the Reds.

A mistake to let Brewster go

Despite their handsome profit and the buy-back clause inserted in his contract, Liverpool were foolish to let Brewster leave the club. As it stands, the Reds only have Origi to fill in for Roberto Firmino if he picks up an injury and despite being a cult hero, his general performances are inconsistent.

Last season, the Belgian tallied just six goals in 42 appearances across all competitions (via Transfermarkt). A very disappointing return for a striker playing for the Premier League champions. But given Firmino's unique role as more of a playmaker than a goalscorer, Liverpool aren't boasting high numbers from any of their strikers.

"There's not too many forwards that have the aggression that Brewster has," Thompson continued. "There's a couple of others that could have gone, Xherdan Shaqiri for example could've brought a few quid in."

Indeed, Shaqiri has been linked to an Anfield exit but it seemed Jurgen Klopp had a change of heart at the last minute. However, even with the Swiss international on the books, Liverpool are very thin on attacking options.

With Brewster's promising loan spell with Swansea, scoring 11 goals in 22 games, the Reds could have worked on making him the club's next star striker. Now, they must turn to the limited options they have instead.

In other news, Liverpool have last-gasp chance to solve goalkeeping woes with Jack Butland deal...