Hodgson: I only had eyes for Liverpool
LIVERPOOL manager Roy Hodgson insists he never considered delaying his appointment on the off-chance the England job became available.
Hodgson has been touted as one of the favourites to succeed Fabio Capello, whose future as national team coach is under discussion by England chiefs.
But rather than stall while the Italian’s future is decided over the next 10 days, Hodgson completed his move from Fulham by signing a three-year deal at Anfield.
And, speaking yesterday at his official presentation as replacement for the sacked Rafael Benitez, the Englishman declared he only had eyes for Liverpool.
“When this job was first discussed with me there was no idea that there might be a change in the England set-up,” said the 62-year-old.
“Also as a second point I don’t expect a change in the England set-up. Thirdly there was never a case of me thinking of holding on and hedging my bets about that because I wanted to be here.
“The only question in my mind, after Liverpool had completed the due process to decide on who would be the manager, was whether or not it would be me.”
Journeyman Hodgson, whose idiosyncratic career has taken in spells as coach of Switzerland, Finland, Inter Milan and a host of Scandinavian clubs, laid out his ambitions for next season.
Top of his list is returning to the Champions League but, arguably more importantly, he has prioritised convincing unsettled stars Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano that they should stay.
“I hope they won’t be tempted, on the back of one disappointing year, to jump ship,” Hodgson added.
“I personally can’t nail their feet to the floor. I’ll try to convince them that if they stay here and have a good season then it’s a good club to play for.
“It’s out of my hands to an extent, but I do know the club is anxious to keep the players, I’m anxious to keep the players.”
Hodgson was given a measure of encouragement by Gerrard’s response to his appointment, the captain calling him “the right man for Liverpool”.
Gerrard, who has been linked with Real Madrid, added: “I think it’s been worth the wait and I’m sure he’s just keen now to get on with it and start to quickly put in place his plans for the new season.”