Writing in The Times today I have argued that, despite the negativity from some quarters, the job of managing Liverpool is not a lost cause; but Roy Hodgson will need to be selective in his pursuit of success and should focus on the league, using academy players along with the fringes of the first XI in the three cup competitions. That could mean the league may be all that is left come January, but that must be the priority and with the addition of a couple of astute signings, Liverpool could challenge for the top four and at the same time develop new talent at a pace we haven’t seen in years.
That is the minimum requirement to convince the top players (some of whom only learnt about the club`s intentions regarding the managerial post on Wednesday).
Hodgson wants to retain his prize assets and will chat to those involved at the World Cup once the tournament is over, but he also knows new blood must be pumped into the side. In terms of funding, nothing differs from the constraints placed upon Benitez and a limited transfer budget means the new manager will need to sell before he can make a significant investment in the squad - and Hodgson hopes that it does not entail losing Torres or Steven Gerrard. It is almost irrelevant whether or not Gerrard fancies a move abroad or not, it is highly unlikely that his Spanish suitors will ever get close to the 50 million it would take to satisfy the club and placate the fans.
Real Madrid`s offer will fall well below Liverpool`s valuation of the their captain, and it it is highly unlikely that the two clubs even get as far as preliminary negotiations.
However, keeping hold of Gerrard only papers over the cracks and there are other urgent matters awaiting Hodgson on his first days at Melwood. Liverpool`s top foreign stars feel insecure, unable to decipher whether the club will be competitive at the top level or not. Players may need to be sold to raise funds, but rival clubs eyeing the likes of Reina, Torres, Mascherano or Gerrard feel they hold all the aces, sensing there is no rush to buy as nobody believes, despite the constant rumours, that new owners and investors are about to come to Liverpool`s rescue.
Yet a line-up comprised of Reina , Johnson, Agger, Skirtel,Carragher, Insua, Mascherano, Aquilani, Gerrard, Kuyt and Torres is an outstanding platform and with the right additions - plus if Hodgson can sell his vision to the players - then I personally cannot wait for the season to start and can envisage Liverpool giving City, Spurs, Arsenal, Chelsea and United an epic fight for the top four.
In association with Icons.com, the home of signed football memorabilia.
In association with Icons.com, the home of signed football memorabilia.
