Roy Hodgson Ponders Move For Inter Midfielder Rene Krhin

Liverpool is set to move for Inter starlet Rene Krhin, according to La Stampa.

Roy Hodgson likes the player and his good relations with Inter could help him push through a move for the Slovenian midfielder.

Jose Mourinho used Krhin sparingly last season, but he was registered as part of the Champions League squad.

The 20-year-old Khrin hopes for regular action and he could be turned on by the lure of Premier League football.

He has also been linked with Chelsea and Manchester United, but Hodgson's friendship with Inter chief Massimo Moratti could prove pivotal if negotiations take off.

Liverpool Want Twente Star Bryan Ruiz

Premier League outfit Liverpool is closely monitoring the situation of Costa Rican international Bryan Ruiz, currently under contract with Dutch champions Twente, according to a report in Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

The English giants are desperate to add to their ranks in the summer transfer window and newly appointed manager Roy Hodgson supposedly sees the 24-year-old Ruiz as the perfect addition to his squad.

Ruiz joined Twente from Gent in the summer of 2009 and immediately developed into the Tukkers' star player. The tricky forward helped Twente to the Eredivisie title by netting 24 goals in 34 appearances and has since been linked with a move to many a bigger club.

Teams such as Valencia, Sevilla, Wolfsburg and Fulham are all believed to be keeping tabs on the versatile forward. Ruiz has an ongoing contract with Twente, but he has a €15 million release clause in his deal and Liverpool appears to be ready to meet that clause.

Representative Of Liverpool's Javier Mascherano Claims Inter Move Is Possible In Future

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano could make an Inter switch towards the end of the transfer window, claims Italian representative Marco Piccioli, unless Barcelona beat them to it.

Mascherano has been tipped to rejoin Rafael Benitez at Inter, but Spanish reports have linked him with a move to Barcelona.

Inter sports director Marco Branca last week said the club was in no hurry to force a move for the €25 million rated midfielder.

That ambling attitude has left the Blaugrana with a clear sight on the Reds man as they take aim.

But his agent for Italy believes the Milanese club are just biding their time and feels a grainy path could soon become smooth.

"I know that Mascherano and Benitez have a great relationship," Piccioli told Calcionews24.com.

"However, sometimes this is not enough. We will see in future. A deal can only happen towards the last part of the transfer market, that's my vision at least."

Roy Hodgson Hoping To Persuade Joe Cole To Join Liverpool

New Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson is reportedly hoping to convince free agent Joe Cole to join the Merseyside club.

The 28-year-old recently parted ways with Chelsea after his contract at Stamford Bridge came to an end, and he is now free to talk to any club he chooses.

Goal.com UK had previously revealed that Cole has agreed in principle to join the Gunners, despite Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp recently expressing a desire to sign the creative playmaker.

Now The Sun claims the former Fulham manager views the player as an ideal replacement for midfielder Yossi Benayoun, who has joined Cole's former club Chelsea.

Cole had previously been linked with moves away from England, but his agent recently maintained that his client would likely remain in the Premier League - playing for a club that would compete in the Champions League.

'Roy Is Ideal For Liverpool'

Former Blackburn Rovers assistant manager Tony Parkes believes Roy Hodgson is the perfect man to take Liverpool forward.

Parkes was on Hodgson's coaching staff at Ewood Park and claims the former Fulham boss has unfinished business to attend to in English football.

He led Blackburn to a top-six finish in his first full season in charge but parted company with the Lancashire club the following season.

"I think with the players he's got to coach and work with at Liverpool, I think he'll be the ideal manager," said Parkes.

"I think by coming back to this country he's got some unfinished business.

"He's very experienced, he's very determined and you'll find that he doesn't like certain things. His team talks are usually all about his own team and he mentions the opposition very little.

"It's all about how his team will play and he has good knowledge and he's a good tactician and I think the players will enjoy working with him.

"I think when Roy was at Blackburn, when he first came, he got the team buzzing.

"We were second from top at Christmas and he was top of the list for the England manager's job at the time and things were going great for him.

"I do think they [the Blackburn board] sacked him too early.

"I think if they would have carried on with Roy I think he would have got us out of the trouble we were in."

'We Must Improve Attack'

Liverpool fans believe Roy Hodgson should make strengthening our forward line his top priority in the transfer market.

We asked supporters where they felt reinforcements were needed this summer - with 66 per cent stating they want to see signings in attack.

A total of 19 per cent of Kopites think defence is where Hodgson needs to concentrate, with 16 per cent concerned about midfield.

Meanwhile, another of our online polls discovered that 90 per cent of Liverpool fans are behind the introduction of goal-line technology.

Just 10 per cent are in favour of the status quo following a terrible refereeing decision which cost Frank Lampard and England dearly in the World Cup last 16 defeat to Germany.

Agent Denies Making Comments About Fernando Torres' Departure From Liverpool

Fernando Torres' agent has denied making any comments regarding the 26-year-old's future at Liverpool to the English press on Monday morning.

Jose Antonio Martin says that he hasn't spoken to the English media in months and has dismissed claims that the Spain international is thinking of switching to another Premier League club this summer.

Martin was earlier quoted as saying that although Torres will remain in the Premier League, he cannot guarantee that his client will stay with the Merseyside club. However, Torres' representative now says that he did not make those comments.

"For many months I have not spoken to the English press because their quotes are totally false," Martin has been quoted as saying by Sky Sports. "Now is not the moment to speak about this issue because Torres is focused completely on his work for Spain.

"After the World Cup Bahia Internacional will possibly meet with the player but the truth is that Fernando has signed a deal with Liverpool which is for the present and the future."

Torres' current contract with Liverpool runs until 2013. At the moment the former Atletico Madrid forward is with the Spanish squad in South Africa preparing for their semi-final clash with Germany on Wednesday evening.

Roman Abramovich Travels To South Africa To Lure Liverpool Striker Fernando Torres To Chelsea

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has travelled to South Africa to discuss a possible move with Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, according to a report from The Daily Telegraph.

The Blues owner is believed to be ready to offer a massive £50 million for the Spain star, who is also a reported target for Manchester City.

City's chances seem to be reducing now though, with the Spaniard understood to be keen to play Champions League football next season.

Torres' representatives have denied the 27-year-old wants to leave Anfield, but Chelsea and City both believe that, in reality, he is seeking a move.

Barcelona are also said to be interested, but Torres is apparently not keen on a move back to Spain.

Chelsea are set to bid below Liverpool's valuation of the player, which could complicate matters, but Abramovich is understood to be pushing very hard for the deal after his club already landed Yossi Benayoun from the Reds earlier this summer.

Liverpool FC Target Ashley Young Unlikely To Leave Aston Villa

Reputed Liverpool target Ashley Young is unlikely to leave Aston Villa, according to reports emerging in the West Midlands.

New Anfield boss Roy Hodgson made a pledge to try and buy English players this summer with 25-year-old Young strongly linked with a move to Merseyside.

However any potential interest in the England international may subside with suggestions that Martin O’Neill would not be willing to let two of his prize assets leave Villa Park.

Manchester City are expected to return with an improved offer for James Milner after their initial £20m bid was rejected in May.

If Villa and owner Randy Learner receive a fee deemed too good to refuse, Milner’s exit is likely to signal Young will remain with O’Neill’s men with boardroom sources saying a sale of a second top star would not be tolerated by the club faithful.

Fernando Torres Eyed By Manchester City For Stephen Ireland Plus Cash Deal

Roberto Mancini is to step up his pursuit of Fernando Torres with an offer to make him the world's best-paid footballer and hand Liverpool a player-plus-cash transfer deal including highly-rated Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland.

City's bosses have given the OK to present the Spanish international with a wage packet in excess of £200,000-a-week - which is reportedly the salary of fellow new signing Yaya Toure.

Liverpool has recently come under new management in the form of former Fulham boss Roy Hodgson, following the departure of Rafael Benitez.

As a result of the upheaval at Anfield, which includes the ownership of the club and the disappointing 2009/10 season, Torres' future has become the subject of intense speculation.

City is desperate to add one of the world's top strikers to their ranks and will offer fringe players as well as a significant transfer fee in excess of £30million for the former Atletico Madrid star.

Hodgson has already been told he will be given any transfer fee recouped from the sale of players to reinvest in the squad.

And he may accept Stephen Ireland plus cash is a fair deal for Torres - a player whose heart may not be in it anymore after his former manager, and the man he left his boyhood club to work for, departed in the summer.

Liverpool Rival Sunderland For Wigan Man

New Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson is ready to do battle with Steve Bruce over Maynor Figueroa, according to reports.

Black Cats' boss Steve Bruce failed with two attempts to land the Honduras international last season, but is thought to be ready to renew his interest in a player who would fill the problem left-back position.

However, even if Bruce can convince former club Wigan Athletic to part company with Figueroa, it now seems he faces competition for the defender.

Hodgson has also identified the left as an area which the Reds need to strengthen with Fiorentina target Emiliano Insua having struggled for form during his time at Anfield.

Having worked with Figueroa while in charge at the DW Stadium, Bruce will be hopeful of getting his man.

The Sunderland boss used his Latics links to land Lee Cattermole last summer, but came under fire from Athletic chairman Dave Whelan after twice returning with bids for Figueroa.

That won't prevent Bruce from testing the water once again, with the Black Cats manager believed to have already made a tentative approach for Figueroa's Wigan team-mate Charles N'Zogbia.

Former Newcastle United man N'Zogbia is understood to be keen on a move away from the DW Stadium.

However, Whelan and Latics manager Roberto Martinez are likely to want to keep hold of one of their star players.

That could mean a high asking price being set for one or both players, with a bidding war in the offing should Hodgson step up his interest.

However, Bruce has insisted he will not pay over the odds for players.

Reina Makes Torres Warning

Pepe Reina today warned Germany that Fernando Torres is ready to break their hearts for the second time.

The 26-year-old striker has so far failed to score in five South Africa outings and by his own admission has yet to reach full fitness following knee surgery in April.

But speaking ahead of Wednesday's semi-final clash with Joachim Low's men, Reina backed his clubmate to repeat his Euro 2008 final heroics by ending German hopes of glory.

"Torres is a fully mature guy now and has experienced both tough and sweet moments in his career and knows that's the way football goes," said the goalkeeper.

"He knows he enjoys the confidence of the coach, the players and he has strong self confidence. He won us the final against Germany last time and we all hope he repeats that this time."

Gerrard - I'm No Quitter

Liverpool ace Steven Gerrard insists he will not call time on his international career despite England's World Cup disappointment.

The midfielder skippered Fabio Capello's side through their faltering Group C campaign followed by the 4-1 second round loss to Germany.

Since the defeat, Liverpool team-mate Jamie Carragher, who was persuaded to come out of retirement for the tournament by Capello, has again announced his withdrawal from the England scene.

The Italian boss is also thought to be planning to make wholesale changes to his side, replacing some of the 'old guard' with younger blood.

But Gerrard insists he will not be quitting England duty and he desperately wants to add to his 84 caps and make amends for the Germany disappointment.

He told Liverpool's official website: "There is no way I want the disappointment of the Germany game to be my last for England.

"It was such a low and I am determined to do as much as I can to make amends for what happened.

"I expect there to be a lot of changes to the squad and it is up to the manager whether I am selected, but I am going to continue to make myself available for my country."

Roy Hodgson Explains Winding Career Route Which Took Him To Liverpool

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson believes that his keen work ethic may be what has kept him away from a job at one of England's top clubs until now.

The well-travelled coach has enjoyed a varied career all over Europe and the Middle East and feels his willingness to take jobs and eagerness to return to the game when out of work have created a somewhat indirect path to Anfield.

"I wouldn't say I've done things the hard way because there are all kinds of routes a person can take in football management that throw up contrasting challenges," Hodgson told LFC Weekly magazine.

"It would be disrespectful to other managers to say that I've had it tougher. What I would say is that my route to Liverpool has been slightly different.

"My problem has been that I love working and I hate being out of it. Whenever I have been, after a few weeks I have found myself yearning for a return. So maybe on occasions I've been prone to jumping at an offer at a smaller club when I should have waited a little longer before a better job has come around."

Hodgson also believes that his ability to fit in to foreign environments fairly seamlessly has often meant that English clubs tended to forget about him when it came to finding a new manager.

"There have been times when I've tried to blend in too well to the surroundings I'm in, rather than be myself and portray my Englishness," he added.

"I sometimes think that people in England probably view me as the least English of the English managers. Maybe that's one of the reasons why it has taken me longer than others to get one of the big jobs."

Roy Hodgson To Receive '£40 million' Transfer Budget At Liverpool

Roy Hodgson will receive a £40 million transfer budget to re-build the Liverpool squad and avoid a repeat of last season's disappointing seventh-place finish.

Hodgson, who was recently confirmed as the replacement for Rafael Benitez, has been guaranteed £12million, which will rise to around £40m with the expected sales of Javier Mascherano and Albert Riera, according to the News of the World.

Hodgson will receive all of the funding from the transfers, though will not benefit from the £5.5m sale of Yossi Benayoun, with the money already put aside to pay off ex-manager Benitez and a £2m compensation bill to Fulham.

Rumoured targets include Ashley Young and Steven Taylor, though Hodgson faces a battle to keep captain Steven Gerard and striker Fernando Torres onside after Liverpool's torrid Premiership season.

The quality of any new signings will play a major factor in the battle to keep both players at Anfield, who are said to be unhappy with the club's inability to challenge for top honours.

Mascherano looks increasingly likely be sold to Barcelona rather than Inter Milan as a replacement for Yaya Toure, who recently joined Manchester City.

Meanwhile, Inter Milan are rumoured to be interested in Albert Riera, who failed to attend midweek pre-season training, reports the News of the World.

Hodgson is however determined to hold onto £20m signing Alberto Aquilani, despite the Italian's injury-hit début season with the Reds.

Liverpool Scare Off Inter Milan With £8 Million Lucas Leiva Valuation

According to the People, both Panathinaikos and Palermo have already had bids rejected by the Reds, but with Benitez a big supporter of the Brazil international he could find himself following his former manager to the San Siro this summer.

Benitez signed Lucas during his six year spell at Anfield and stood by the former Gremio man when he was singled out for abuse from supporters following some poor individual performances.

Liverpool are said to be attempting to raise much needed funds for new manager Roy Hodgson to rebuild the side before next season, and the selling spree could begin with Lucas.

However, the Merseysiders will not want to lose Lucas, who made 32 Premier League starts last season, on the cheap and look set to be holding out for a big offer before offloading their unsettled star.

Ayala Heading Back To Spain

Liverpool defender Dani Ayala is set for a season-long loan move to Spanish second division club Real Valladolid, with a view to a permanent move.

The youngster joined the Anfield club from Sevilla back in September 2007 and Reds reserve team coach John McMahon claimed that the 19-year-old had all the attributes to succeed.

However, the hot Spanish prospect only has one year left on his contract and, following Rafa Benitez's move to Spain, he is now excited to be possibly returning to his homeland with Valladolid, who were relegated from La Liga last season.

"Right now I am waiting to see what my future is because I don't know what will happen now Benitez has left. I am happy at Liverpool but I would be very excited to play in Spain," he said in The People.

Ayala made five appearances for Liverpool last season, starting two games, against Stoke and Burnley.

Dirk Kuyt Close To Fulfilling Lifelong Dream At World Cup

Dirk Kuyt admits he has dreamt of playing in a World Cup final all his life, but the Holland and Liverpool winger knows he needs to put those thoughts aside and focus on the job ahead.

The hard-working 29-year-old has been a key player for Holland and is certain to take his place in the starting line-up against Uruguay in their World Cup semi-final on Tuesday.

He said the whole team was excited at still being in the tournament, but they were not getting carried away at the prospect of meeting either Germany or Spain in the decider.

"We are all so happy and we know how close we are to getting to the final," he told the Liverpool website.

"This is something we have dreamed about our whole lives but we know that we have got to be careful and everyone expects us to get there now.

"We have got a lot of hard work to do. We have got to make sure we stick together and not get too carried away because the semi-final will be the hardest game we play. But we have got a fantastic opportunity."

Kuyt, who blossomed at Feyenoord where he scored 83 goals in 122 matches, moved to Liverpool in 2006 and said he was looking forward to working with new manager Roy Hodgson.

"It is good news that everything is sorted out," said Kuyt after Hodgson agreed a three-year deal with the club last week to replace Rafael Benitez.

"I haven't spoken to the manager yet because everyone at Liverpool wanted me to prepare for Holland's game but I'm looking forward to speaking to him."

Hodgson has taken steps to introduce himself to all members of the Liverpool squad, including those still on World Cup duty, which include Kuyt and fellow Dutchman Ryan Babel.

Fernando Torres 'Happy' With Roy Hodgson's Appointment As Liverpool Manager

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has declared that he is happy with the arrival of Roy Hodgson as manager at Anfield.

The Spain star hopes that the former Fulham manager can provide the Reds with the kind of stability and guidance that they have seemingly been lacking for a while now.

"I was happy he got the job," Torres told reporters.

"I haven't had a chat with him yet but I will talk with him soon and we will see his ideas about the future.

"He did really well at Fulham and I am sure he can do better for Liverpool. He is a very good manager. Hopefully he will be the right man to give Liverpool the opportunity to be strong again."

Rumours persist that Torres is set to leave Liverpool this summer, with Manchester City said to be keeping a close eye on his situation.

The player insisted that his situation would be discussed after Spain's World Cup campaign is over.

"I have a contract so it is the reality now. My future is here [at the World Cup] now," he said.

"South Africa is too important to think after that. I'm sure I will talk with him soon."

Roy Hodgson Opens Door For Brede Hangeland's Move To Arsenal

Roy Hodgson has ruled himself out of signing any players from Fulham - including defender Brede Hangeland - leaving the way clear for Arsenal to swoop for the highly-rated central defender.

After quitting Craven Cottage to take over at Liverpool last week, it was widely reported Hodgson would look to 'raid' his former club for several players - including Hangeland, who had also followed the experienced coach from Norwegian club Viking to west London in 2008.

However, Hodgson has categorically ruled out any talk of poaching Fulham's stars as he looks to build a Liverpool squad in his image - saying it was one of the pledges he had made to Mohamed al Fayed when the Fulham chairman allowed him to leave for Anfield.

'I won't be raiding Fulham,' he said.

'I've made that commitment to the club, who were good enough, albeit reluctantly, to allow me to speak to Liverpool and take the job here.

'I have great respect for everyone there, I had magnificent support from the chairman Mr Al Fayed and the chief executive.

'And the one thing I made clear to the [Liverpool] chairman is that I certainly don't want to go in and raid Fulham FC because that wouldn't be the right thing to do.'

Hodgson's pledge leaves the way open for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to approach the Cottagers over Hangeland - who is reportedly considering his future at the club in the light of the former coach's departure.

The Gunners are in desperate need of reinforcements at the back following the release of out-of-contract defenders William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre, and a likely move to Celtic for veteran Sol Campbell.

Hodgson has so far refused to be drawn on the question of potential transfers to Liverpool, although speculation suggests he could be handed a £40million transfer kitty to begin restructuring the squad.

However, he has already made clear he wants to keep senior players such as Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher - not to mention top-rated striker Fernando Torres, who is again being linked with a move to another Premier League side thought to be Chelsea.

'I'll have to deal with the question of the sort of players we will be signing to a later date,' Hodgson added.

'I need to sit down with the coaches and the chief executive and discuss things first.'

Torres May Leave - Agent

Fernando Torres' agent has refused to commit his client's long-term future to Liverpool.

Although the Spain international is contracted to the Anfield club until 2013 Rafa Benitez's summer exit has raised question marks.

Torres is currently in South Africa preparing for a World Cup semi-final against Germany, although his form to date this summer has been below par.

The 26-year-old was thought to be a target for Barcelona, but agent Jose Antonio Martin has ruled out that possibility after they signed David Villa.

Martin believes, if anything, Torres will remain in the Premier League, but not necessarily with The Reds, sparking rumours of a possible move to Chelsea.

"Barcelona have signed David Villa and now they want to invest the money they have in other players," he told the Daily Mail.

"It is very likely that Fernando Torres will stay in the Premier League, but I cannot say that it will be with Liverpool.

"We are working on his future but right now you cannot guarantee that he will stay with the English club."

Albert Riera Will Be Given The Chance To Resurrect His Liverpool FC Career

Albert Riera will be offered the chance to revive his Liverpool career today.

New manager Roy Hodgson has pledged to give every player the opportunity to prove they have a future at the club.

The controversial winger was thought to be surplus to requirements after a spectacular fall-out with former manager Rafa Benitez last season.

Frustrated by a lack of first team opportunities, the Spain international criticised Benitez’s management style and labelled the club a ‘sinking ship’.

Riera’s incredible outburst saw him suspended and fined two weeks wages after which he was frozen out at Liverpool before also missing out on Spain’s World Cup squad.

It has been a miserable year for the former Manchester City winger but now Riera will get his chance to impress the new boss, who has suggested everyone will start with a clean slate.

“Whenever a new manager comes in, players who have been on the periphery start to see it and maybe think ‘this may be my chance, I’ll have a go’,” said Hodgson

“You’d be foolish as a manager not to give them that chance.”

A minor knee injury prevented Riera from reporting back for the start of pre-season training last week.

Instead he was given Thursday and Friday off by the club and is expected at Melwood today where he will meet Hodgson.

Italian giants Juventus are thought to be interested in Riera, as are La Liga side Mallorca who could try to tempt the 28-year-old back to the ONO Estadi where he began his career.

Riera joined Liverpool from Espanyol for £8million in summer 2008 but has failed to make an impact, scoring just five goals.

He made 28 Premier League appearances in his first season on Merseyside but just 12 last term before falling out of favour after an alleged training ground bust-up with another player and a move to Spartak Moscow fell through in April leaving Riera in limbo.

Since then the player has backtracked on his ‘sinking ship’ jibe insisting he wants to remain at Anfield.

“This was a difficult year for me and for Liverpool,” said Riera last month.

“Sincerely, if I can, I would like to remain at Liverpool because this club is a top one.”

That decision is now with Hodgson, though the Reds boss will probably have to offload players before he can start to shape his own squad.

Although chairman Martin Broughton has claimed the club do not need to raise money from player sales to alleviate the club’s debts, Hodgson will begin his tenure with a modest transfer kitty of around £12million.

Hodgson said last week that he will ‘fight tooth and nail’ to keep Liverpool’s best players at the club but will also know that he will have to raise funds if he is to secure his top transfer targets.

Roy: How Reds Inspired Me

Roy Hodgson has revealed how Liverpool's legendary 'pass and move' brand of football helped inspire his managerial style.

The newly-installed Reds boss admits watching the club during the trophy-laden decade of the 1970s shaped his approach to coaching.

Now Hodgson hopes to implement a similar style at Anfield once again as he begins his Liverpool tenure.

"All the things I've always liked are the things Liverpool were famous for in their heyday," he said.

"Pass and move, always move it quickly and once you lose it get back in to position.

"That was the mantra which took Liverpool through their great years.

"I like a high-tempo passing game. I like players to work hard, I like players to get back in position. Those are my principles. I was influenced by the Liverpool team which dominated the 70s with all its great players and playing the football they played.

"Also the Arsenal team of 1970-71 with Don Howe, who I thought was an exceptional coach, and the Chelsea team around about the same era of Dave Sexton.

"All those teams, for me, played football the way I was hoping to coach a football team to play.

"And they're also teams who had great success in playing that way and had managers and coaches who I as a young coach thought I could learn from."

Hodgson also pledged not to become involved in any mind games with other managers, describing such ploys as 'nonsense'.

"I must say I've always believed you don't have battles with other managers," he stated.

"Football teams have battles with other football teams, clubs have battles with other clubs and I've never subscribed to that theory that it's me and you.

"I used to find it quite ridiculous in Italy when they used to compare your record against another manager. It's nonsense.

"If you happen to be manager of a club who is fighting for survival against a club which wins the title every year, the chances are that in the battles you've had he's won one and you've won five. That's the way it goes."

Roy Fears For Fergie Friendship

New Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson is concerned that he may have placed his 'excellent relationship' with Sir Alex Ferguson in jeopardy by moving to Anfield.

The former Fulham boss is fretting over making a first phone call to the Manchester United chief since being unveiled on Merseyside on Thursday.

Liverpool and United are arch-rivals and Hodgson fears that it could put a strain on his friendship with Ferguson.

The Reds boss said: "I know Sir Alex is not really a Liverpool man so I'm a bit concerned about my excellent relationship with him.

"I hope he forgives me for moving north and, hopefully, we can have a glass of wine together, maybe in secret.

"I hope that's how he is going to see it but he is one of the people I intend to ring to find out.

"When I rang the Fulham chairman to say I wished to move to Liverpool, that was one call I had to get out of the way and Alex might be the next one.

"I must say I've always believed you don't have battles with other managers.

"Football teams have battles with other football teams, clubs have battles with other clubs and I've never subscribed to that theory that it's me and you.

"I used to find it quite ridiculous in Italy when they used to compare your record against another manager. It's nonsense.

"If you happen to be manager of a club who is fighting for survival against a club which wins the title every year, the chances are that in the battles you've had he's won one and you've won five. That's the way it goes."

Meanwhile, Hodgson has indicated that he will be prepared to offer fringe players in his inherited squad the chance to impress.

He said: "Whenever a new manager comes in, players who have been on the periphery start to see it and maybe think, 'this could be my chance, I'll have a go'.

"You'd be foolish as a manager not to give them that chance."

Inter Wait On Mascherano

Inter Milan sports director Marco Branca has seemingly dismissed the suggestion that the club would need to sell in order to buy Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano.

The Argentina captain, who played in Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Germany, seems set to leave Anfield and he has been persistently linked with the European champions.

Mascherano's arrival at Inter has increased in probability after the Italians appointed former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez as their new boss earlier in the summer as a successor to Jose Mourinho.

It has, though, been speculated that Benitez would have to sell members of his squad in order to raise funds to meet the asking price of the defensive midfielder.

But Branca has played down these reports, telling La Gazzetta dello Sport when quizzed on the subject: "It is not said that someone will leave.

"We are waiting in a long market with long negotiations. Without a serious offer (for a member of the Inter squad), we will stay as we are."

Roy Hodgson Will Make Newcastle United's Steven Taylor His First Signing

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has targeted Newcastle United centre-back Steven Taylor as the man around which to rebuild the Red's defence.

According to the Sunday Mirror, the new Anfield boss will attempt to make Taylor his first signing since taking over, with a £5 million bid believed to be in the offing.

Early negotiations are already thought to have taken place between Taylor's representatives and the Merseysiders.

With Newcastle having gained promotion back to the Premier League this season, Taylor is believed to be waiting to hear future plans from the Toon hierarchy before making a decision on his future.

United have previously stated they do not intend to splash out lavish amounts of money this summer, something that Taylor is believed to be concerned about by their lack of ambition.

It's thought the 24-year-old defender would favour a move to Liverpool, despite interest from several Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Aston Villa.

Taylor has just one year left on his current deal and Newcastle may be forced to listen to offers to avoid losing him for nothing next summer.

The Magpies' youth product could begin pre-contract talks and agree a deal with Liverpool in January should Newcastle fail to tie him down.

It is also speculated that Hodgson is attempting to prise Brede Hangeland from his former employers in a £7m bid.

Hodgson believes his close relationship with the Norwegian should rush through a move and having taken Phillippe Senderos to Craven Cottage before his departure, the Cottagers may be willing to listen to offers.

Kop Eye Ivory Coast Star As Benayoun Replacement

New Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson is weighing up making a move for Ivory Coast star Gervinho now that Yossi Benayoun has completed his £6million move to Chelsea.

The ex-Fulham manager is looking to strengthen his squad and was keeping tabs on the pacy winger during the World Cup.

He is considering making a bid for the Lille man, though the French club will have to lower their asking price of £10m.

Hodgson would not be willing to pay more than £8m for the 23-year-old, who cost Lille £6.5m just a year ago.

But Gervinho would fill the gap left by Benayoun if the Israeli does, as expected, complete his switch with the clubs reported to have agreed a deal before Hodgson’s arrival.

Villa Winger Young Tops Hodgson's Liverpool Target List

The inevitable speculation over Roy Hodgson's first Liverpool signing has begun with Aston Villa's Ashley Young reportedly top of the list.

24 year-old Young has impressed at Villa Park since arriving from Watford in 2006 and enjoyed another good season, scoring five goals and contributing eight assists for Martin O’Neill’s side. Young has already won seven England caps and was considered an outside bet for Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad.

The Mail on Sunday speculates that winger Young is at the top of Hodgson's most wanted list, particularly given that he is an English player.

The new Liverpool boss hinted that he will prioritize bringing English signings to Anfield, saying, "We would be foolish not to be aware of the importance of homegrown players with the way UEFA and Premier League rules are going. Otherwise we're going to struggle to get our squad numbers together.

"I think the club has been trying to do that already with younger players like Jonjo Shelvey and Raheem Sterling but it takes time for them to come through so we might have to go into the transfer market."

Young has previously been linked with a move to Manchester City and even Barcelona. Although Aston Villa enjoyed a good season, it remains unclear whether O'Neill will have to sell players before he can make significant summer purchases. Hodgson himself would likely be forced to sell players before being able to bring the likes of Young to Liverpool.

Liverpool Boss Hodgson Set To Offload Mascherano For Transfer Fund

Roy Hodgson is likely to have to sell before he is able to make significant signings at Liverpool with Javier Mascherano the likeliest big name Anfield exit.

According to the News of the World, Hodgson has been given £12million to spend but will have to raise funds from future sales in order to add to his kitty. Apparently, the £5.5million received by Liverpool from Chelsea for Yossi Benayoun will not be reinvested in players, but will instead go towards paying off former manager Rafa Benitez and compensating Fulham for Hodgson's departure.

Albert Riera is likely to leave Liverpool, having repeatedly criticized the club and failed to so far return to pre-season training. However, the Spanish winger is unlikely to attract big money offers.

The News of the World claim that Hodgson will do what he can to keep Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres at the club, with the pair prepared to remain at Anfield for the coming few weeks in order to see what progress Hodgson makes.

Argentina captain Mascherano is therefore the most likely star to leave Liverpool in order to raise funds. The midfielder is rumoured to be a prime transfer target for Barcelona, especially given that Yaya Toure has just finalized a move to Manchester City, leaving room for another defensive midfielder at the Nou Camp.

Steven Gerrard Calls On Fifa To Reopen Goalline Technology Debate

Steven Gerrard has called for the introduction of goal line technology in the wake of England's World Cup exit at the hands of Germany. England were wrongly not awarded a goal in their last-16 match, when Frank Lampard's potential equalizer was ruled out despite clearly crossing the line – although they were eventually well beaten by the semi-finalists.

During the Europa League, Uefa experimented with extra officials behind the goals and the England captain, Gerrard, who experienced the system with Liverpool, believes that is the minimum that should have been in operation in South Africa.

"It was a success then," he said. "Why not use the same system at the World Cup? If there had been a linesman behind the German goal then maybe England would still be in the World Cup."

Gerrard believes players should have more influence in rule changes. "When these decisions are made they are always made by officials," he said. "They don't play the game, do they?

"The decision not to award Frank's goal was a shocker. I was 25 yards out and I could see clearly that it was over the line, so I can't understand why the linesman didn't give it. He was a good 20 yards behind play, which is disappointing at this level, and I hope it opens the debate up again about goal line technology.

"Fifa have to look at it now because what happened with us was scary. It just isn't good enough. My opinion is that goal-line technology should be brought in and I know I'm not alone in thinking that.

"We have seen a lot of rule changes over the years – most of them good – but I can't understand why there is so much opposition to this technology because we are talking about decisions that can decide things as big as the World Cup.

"What will happen is the decision will be made by people who don't play the game and who aren't affected by these mistakes. Why aren't the players ever asked? I'm sure that most of them would vote for goal line technology to be introduced."

Jamie Carragher: I'm Focussing On Liverpool

Jamie Carragher has confirmed his return to the England set-up for the World Cup was a 'one-off' as he plans to focus all his energies on Liverpool for the coming season.

The Reds vice-captain was coaxed out of international retirement by manager Fabio Capello for the South Africa tournament.

However, Carragher admits he is unlikely to figure for the Three Lions again and will instead strive to do all he can to help new Anfield boss Roy Hodgson bring success to Anfield.

"This was a one-off thing," said Carragher. "The manager said he had a few injuries and I came into the squad and helped.

"I was delighted with the opportunity to play in a World Cup and work with Capello but I have always said the most important thing for me is Liverpool Football Club.

"We have a new boss now in Roy Hodgson and I want to do everything I can to help him and help the club get back up where we belong."

Spain Still Counting On Seeing Best Of Torres

Spain is still hoping to see the best of out-of-sorts striker Fernando Torres at the World Cup, according to coach Vicente del Bosque.

Torres returned from knee surgery shortly before the tournament in South Africa and turned in another lacklustre performance for the European champions in Saturday's 1-0 win over Paraguay before being substituted shortly after halftime.

Strike partner David Villa again overshadowed the Liverpool forward, scoring an 83rd-minute winner to set up a last-four clash against Germany, whom Spain beat 1-0 in the final of Euro 2008 with a Torres goal.

"He (Torres) is in good shape physically and in his defence you have to say that the team didn't really string together their attacks well," Del Bosque said at a news conference after his side kept alive their hopes of a first World Cup triumph.

"We are satisfied with his work and his attitude and we are hoping for the best of him in our next matches," he added.

While Torres has yet to find the net in any of Spain's games, Villa took his tally to five in five for the tournament and now has 43 goals in 63 appearances, one short of Raul's national scoring record of 44 in 102 matches.

Looking ahead to the match against Germany in Durban on Wednesday, Spain captain and goalkeeper Iker Casillas said Joachim Loew's prolific side, who thumped Argentina 4-0 in their quarter-final after thrashing England 4-1, were the best at the World Cup.

"They proved that against both Argentina and England and I think we have to show them maximum respect," Casillas, who saved a Paraguay penalty in a dramatic second half at Johannesburg's Ellis Park, told reporters.

"It won't be an easy match and they will be out for revenge after the European Championship," he added. "But we'll stand up to them."

Torres added: "I am a great follower of German soccer and always have been.

"For me, they are a great side and we'll have to be prepared as we haven't had a match as tough yet."

Pepe Reina Told Me Where Oscar Cardozo Was Going To Shoot - Casillas

Hailed as one of the heroes of Spain's triumph over Paraguay following some crucial saves, including stopping a penalty, Spanish goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas has deflected the credit, instead dedicating his save to second-string 'keeper Pepe Reina.

"Reina told me where he [Cardozo] would shoot. He is phenomenal", said the Real Madrid 'keeper of his Liverpool counterpart.

Shortly after saving the spot-kick, San Iker could be seen pointing to the sideline, presumably at Reina, in appreciation of the tip-off.

The Spanish captain praised his team for their hard-fought win against Paraguay, but also remained cautious ahead of the semi-final tie against Germany. "This team has a lot of quality and can go very far. But we have to be careful because Germany has a great team and we need to have respect for them".

Living in the moment though, the euphoric Casillas emphasized the importance of Spain's historic progression to the semi-finals, especially for Spanish fans.

He continued: "We have superseded a psychological barrier and now we are going for it all."