Hodgson determined to keep hold of duo

Roy Hodgson has a number of challenges ahead of him during his time at Liverpool manager. The first of them is possibly the most important though.

The new Liverpool boss must do everything in his power to keep hold of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. Not only are they the two best players at the club, but should either of them depart Anfield, the fans would be devastated about the direction in which the club is heading.

So, where does Hodgson stand on the future of these two?

Not for sale. That is the overwhelming message from the former Fulham boss when asked about the possibility of either of them moving on.

Hodgson has reportedly held talks which each player in recent days and said "Steven Gerrard is not for sale", something which has been made clear to the man in question.

As for Torres, Hodgson stated that the club "don't welcome any offers" for the Spaniard because everybody involved at the club "wants to keep him".
The 62-year-old then revealed more about his brief chat with Torres. He said that "as far as we are concerned, he is a Liverpool player" and this remains to be the case. In what will be music to Liverpool fans, Hodgson added he is "looking forward to working with him".

As things stand, it is clear Hodgson is determined to hold on to Gerrard and Torres. He will be aware of how important they are to him being successful at the club.

There have been many rumours regarding players leaving Anfield, but Hodgson has quashed these by saying that he will stick to the policy "that we don't want to sell our best players and have to start building again".

Liverpool fans will rest slightly easier when they hear the names they want to in the team for the opening game at home to Arsenal. A lot can happen between now and then and despite Hodgson's positive comments, it could still be a very interesting summer on Merseyside.