Staunton re-entered the Liverpool fray on 16th August 1998 against Southampton after rejoining the club he left nine years before. He made a fair start only to be moved to the center after having played on the left side. After the move, he struggled during the season.

With the abundance of centre-backs this season, Staunton has played at his more comfortable left-back position. The Irish international has had to compete with Dominic Matteo for the left-back slot, but being a veteran, he is not expected to figure in Gerard Houllier's long term plan.

Apart from Matteo, the manager is always looking out for new left-backs, but Staunton's experience still remains as an invaluable asset.