Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Hodgson Eyes Up Fanni As Johnson Replacement

Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson is ready to move for French right-back Rod Fanni - as he looks to replace Glen Johnson.

Hodgson flew to watch the Rennes defender against Auxerre on Sunday and is poised to make a bargain offer of around £3 million in the New Year window.

Fanni, 29 next month, is one of the most respected right backs in his homeland and has won five caps for France.

He has been close to coming to the Premier League before when Newcastle, Sunderland and Everton tried for him.

Hodgson is in the market for an experienced defender and is frustrated by England right back Johnson’s injuries and average form since he took charge.

Johnson will be sold in the January market if a suitable offer comes in and Hodgson’s decision to look at potential replacements points towards a change in that department.

Hodgson and Johnson’s relationship has become fraught in recent days after the Kop boss called Johnson’s England credentials into question.

He said: “To be frank, he has not performed up to now to the level I would expect of him. You would have to ask him the question, “Do you think you are playing at top form and are you playing like the best right-back in the country for your club?” If he says yes, we will have to agree to differ. And if he says No, then you have to ask the question, why not?”

Johnson’s response was to label Hodgson’s tactics ‘boring”.

Fanni is a regular in the Rennes side but almost joined Atletico Madrid in the summer before the move fell through.

Hodgson has been playing Jamie Carragher and young Martin Kelly as cover for Johnson during his absence, but a sensible investment in a mature international would fit in with his plans.

Liverpool’s new owners would like to sign young talent for the future, but there are short-term measures also needed - and landing a player who could take over from Johnson and give them a profit would also tick boxes.

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