Detergent Tray broken?

I have a Whirlpool front loader, not sure what series. A friend broke the plastic backing to the detergent tray in the front, top left side of the machine. But as yet have not been able to find a replacement, with some places saying I have to replace the washing machine??? Which I think is excessive. I can still use powdered soap in it and the fabric softener section if unaffected, but I cannot use liquid laundry detergent. The powdered soap is a pain as the machine is a water saver so the granules of soap can be left on the clothes. I use only the smallest amount of powder now. Any advice on my minor predicament would be great. Cheers