Roy Hodgson today sent out a message to Liverpool’s American owners by saying that it is essential the squad is strengthened in January.
In the aftermath of a convincing 2-0 victory over Premier League champions Chelsea, which secured his team’s fourth consecutive win, Hodgson said he “preached caution” and refused to get carried away.
“Our squad needs to be a lot stronger than it is today and that can only be done through the transfer window to come,” said the Liverpool manager in his post-match press conference.
“They [NESV, the American owners] have been very good for the club. For a long period of time we were heading in the wrong direction and there was a lot of concern and uncertainty. They are realistic people because they know we don’t turn things around with a magic wand.”
With Glen Johnson ruled out with a groin injury before kick-off and Sotiros Kyrgiakos suffering from tonsillitis, Hodgson had to reshuffle his defence before the game and could only field unproven youngsters on the substitutes’ bench.
“The squad is looking pretty small at the moment with the injuries and the sicknesses we are picking up,” he said. “I need some players back. If we can get through the next few games we can build.
“Now I prefer to try and keep my feet on the ground. We need to produce a lot more performances like that between now and May. The only trouble with this league is you can go back to 16th quickly.”
Nevertheless, Hodgson was in chirpy mood after his team produced arguably their best display under his fraught reign.
He said: “I’m pleased, of course. I prefer to talk about the team performance rather than individuals but Fernando Torres will get the plaudits. He has taken his share of criticism, some of which was exaggerated and not fully deserved.
“He was certainly back to his best today and played very well. One always hopes that playing at this level you have got that quality of front player. Chelsea have had a lot of success with the quality of their front players.”
Asked if it was his greatest high given the lows he has suffered during his four-month spell at Anfield, the former Fulham manager quipped: “What ups are you talking about? The most enjoyable day at Liverpool was the day I signed. It’s been all downhill since.”
Hodgson did not manage to beat Chelsea during his time at Fulham and said this gave today’s result an even greater resonance.
“It is very satisfying,” he explained. “They are a very good team and showed that in the second half. They aren’t going to lose many matches this season and I’m pleased we chalked one [win] up.
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