http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203027 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203027)
Fulham - The Next Chapter FFC
After all the comings and goings have been sorted out, is it too soon to start thinking about our next campaign?
Will we fair better with no Europa League to worry about and should we be aiming for the top seven?
On the other side will some of the other clubs fair so well in the Europa League as we did?
With the Europa League to deal with, could some of our rivals lose out to us league position wise?
Do we have any early predictions?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203027#ixzz0sDnrlYT0 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203027#ixzz0sDnrlYT0)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203026 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203026)
Fulham's Goalkeeper?
On the thought of our Mr Schwarzer departing for the Gunners and the will he or won`t he saga?
A couple of bad games and he will be keeping there bench warm!
Still further more, not only are his two likely successors David James and Robert Green not only have they not exactly covered themselves in glory for there country.
We won`t name which one they did not shine too brightly for there clubs either, so the big, big question is should we give young David Stockdale his chance?
It could be now or never!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203026#ixzz0sDoA9622 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203026#ixzz0sDoA9622)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203019 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203019)
Fulham - Hodgson Move Update!
Should I stay or should I go now!
An immortal line from 'The Clash` but a sentiment that could well be troubling Roy Hodgson!
Heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, the latest snippet of information gathered from the tabloid press is that Roy is reluctant to take the vacant position at Liverpool without the guarantee that there will be substantial transfer kitty to rebuild the squad.
Now, considering the financial position Hicks and Gilette find themselves in, that could well be a sticking point. In a typical 'Catch 22` situation, the club is obviously for sale but will the new owners want to invest heavily to try and make the club more saleable.
There`s also the Fabio Capello factor! After the shenanigans of the World Cup there are huge question marks about the Italian`s future. Will the FA move quickly to end a reign that promised so much but delivered so little? Will they recognize that the people`s choice to replace Capello could soon be tied to a lengthy contract?
From a position whereby we might have thought the situation was done and dusted we now enter a period where, once again, there is an element of uncertainty creeping in.
Fascinating!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203019#ixzz0sDoRLRhc (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=203019#ixzz0sDoRLRhc)
http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/833194-fa-delay-capello-decision-to-weigh-up-redknapp-and-hodgson-interest? (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/833194-fa-delay-capello-decision-to-weigh-up-redknapp-and-hodgson-interest?)
FA delay Capello decision 'to weigh up Redknapp and Roy Hodgson interest'
The FA's decision to delay an announcement regarding Fabio Capello's future as the England manager is to allow the board to look at all their options - including reported interest in the position from Roy Hodgson and Harry Redknapp.
Spurs manager Redknapp, who was pitchside for the BBC during England's 4-1 defeat to Germany on Sunday, has been quoted as saying he would not turn down the national job if the FA came calling.
The news comes just days after speculation in the British press that Fulham manager Hodgson is delaying a decision over taking the Liverpool job because he wants to see if the England coaching role becomes available this summer.
Former Switzerland and Finland national team manager Hodgson, 62, is said to believe this will be his last chance at a top international job and wants to be sure before taking on a long project at Anfield.
Following England's defeat to Germany in Bloemfontein, Redknapp told Talksport Radio: 'I'm English, who wouldn't want to manage England? No one is ever going to turn that job down.
'There's not an Englishman - whether it's me, Roy Hodgson or Sam Allardyce - who would turn the job down because it's our country and we want to manage our country.'
Redknapp also criticised the decision of the FA to opt for a second foreign coach in Capello - especially after the previous five years under Swede Sven-Goran Eriksson and the 18-month reign of Steve McClaren - the shortest tenure of any England manager in history.
He continued: 'Could you imagine an Englishman managing the Italian national team? It doesn't happen.
'The Germans are the same, they have a German manager. We've ended up with two foreign managers.
'This guy [Capello] has a fantastic record at club level. But look, we've had a go with it now.
'When he finally moves on, in four years or whatever, surely there has to be a young guy or somebody in this country, surely we have to find a manager from England, an English manager.
'We should be able to produce someone who can manage the England football team and let's be honest, they can't do any worse than what they've [Eriksson and Capello] done.'
Meanwhile, Capello has blamed tiredness for England's poor performances in South Africa - advocating a winter break in the Premier League - and said he 'absolutely' wants to remain in the job beyond this summer.
'All the players were really tired at this competiton,' the Italian said.
'I spoke with the coaches and they told me the physical condition of the players was not what we know.
'The players were not like the players I know - they were not as fast, or as quick.'
http://www.bettingzone.co.uk/football/betting/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=betting/10/06/28/manual_173705.html (http://www.bettingzone.co.uk/football/betting/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=betting/10/06/28/manual_173705.html)
HARRY TO BE NEXT ENGLAND BOSS?
Harry Redknapp and Roy Hodgson are the main contenders to be England's next manager, according to the bookies.
The pressure is mounting on current boss Fabio Capello following the country's humiliating 4-1 defeat in the last 16 of the World Cup against Germany on Sunday, with Club England chairman Sir David Richards set to decide the Italian's future in two weeks.
Capello confirmed: "I spoke this morning with Dave Richards. He told me that he needs two weeks time to decide.
"I want to stay on as manager of England."
Redknapp has already said he would not turn down the chance to manage England, while he also mentioned Roy Hodgson and Sam Allardyce as other English managers who want the job.
Hills make Spurs boss Redknapp the 7/4 favourite to take charge while Stan James offer 11/4, but Coral disagree and they make Fulham manager Hodgson the 6/5 jolly.
"England's dismal failure in South Africa will surely spell the end of Fabio Capello's reign as manager, and although the FA have said they require two weeks to consider his future, we reckon the game is up for the Italian," said Coral's David Stevens.
"Two experienced English managers head the betting to replace Capello, and although Harry Redknapp would be a popular choice among many fans, we believe Roy Hodgson's success at guiding Fulham to the Europa League final last season puts him in pole position to fill the most coveted role in English management."
The firm price Redknapp at 3/1 while Guus Hiddink is 5/1, Martin O'Neill 8/1, Stuart Pearce 10/1, David Beckham 12/1, Terry Venables 12/1 and Allardyce 16s.
Meanwhile Sky Bet make Capello 8/13 to be in charge of England's next game - a friendly in August against Hungary at Wembley.
And Hills offer odds of 11/10 that the Italian becomes a former England manager at any point during 2010.
"He seems to have a fortnight to convince the FA that he is the right man for the job - but even if he does so and then loses his first Euro 2012 qualifier he could be back in trouble," said Hill's spokesman Graham Sharpe.
"Nobody currently wants to bet on anything other than Fabio being out before the end of the year."
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/06/28/1999802/fenerbahce-fulham-hull-city-target-kalu-uche-set-to-leave? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/06/28/1999802/fenerbahce-fulham-hull-city-target-kalu-uche-set-to-leave?)
Fenerbahce, Fulham & Hull City target Kalu Uche set to leave Almeria, admits club president
Spanish side want around £3m for Nigerian...
Almeria president Afonso Garcia says that striker Kalu Uche will be allowed to choose whether he wants to stay at the club this summer.
The 27-year-old starred for Nigeria at World Cup 2010, scoring two of their three goals in South Africa - against Greece and South Korea.
Fulham and Hull City have reportedly been linked with a move for the striker, but Fenerbache remain favourites to sign him.
Almeria are yet to receive an offer for Uche and have admitted he is likely to leave the club, with the Spanish side thought to be wanting a fee in the region of €3.5 million (£2.9 million) for the Nigerian.
However, Garcia insists Uche will have the final say should he decide to leave the club.
"We need to analyse everything carefully and stay calm," Garcia told Sky Sports.
"But it is normal that the player decides where they go."
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6236352,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6236352,00.html?)
Baggies move for Piquionne
Race on for former Pompey hit-man
Skysports.com understands West Brom have entered the race to sign former Portsmouth striker Frederic Piquionne.
Piquionne spent last season on loan at Portsmouth from Lyon and impressed at Fratton Park with 11 goals despite their relegation from the Premier League.
A number of clubs have expressed an interest in the talented forward with Fulham and West Ham both having made offers for Piquionne earlier this month.
Fulham are understood to have tabled a new bid for the French international last week as they look to bring him to Craven Cottage, but now West Brom have thrown their hat into the ring for Piquionne by making an offer.
Baggies boss Roberto Di Matteo is keen to bolster his attacking options and he is hoping to steal a march on his Premier League rivals by luring the skilful forward to The Hawthorns.
Four other Premier League clubs, including Blackburn, are thought to be monitoring Piquionne's situation with the 31-year-old available for a cut-price €1million.
Turkish side Fenerbahce have made an offer for Piquionne, but the Frenchman is understood to be ready to snub overtures from the Turks as he has his heart set on a switch to England.
Piquionne is expected to travel to England later this week to hold talks with his interested suitors as he looks to secure a switch back to the Premier League.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290371/Roy-Hodgson-close-Anfield-arrival-Fulham-boss-opts-Liverpool--EXCLUSIVE.html?ITO=1490 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290371/Roy-Hodgson-close-Anfield-arrival-Fulham-boss-opts-Liverpool--EXCLUSIVE.html?ITO=1490)
Roy Hodgson close to Anfield arrival as Fulham boss opts for Liverpool role over England1
England's World Cup crisis could be thrown further into chaos by the imminent appointment of Roy Hodgson as Liverpool manager.
Hodgson would be the hot favourite to succeed Fabio Capello if the Football Association part company with the Italian after England's crushing exit here in South Africa.
But Liverpool are hopeful of snapping up the highly regarded 62-year-old Fulham manager before the end of the week.
That would leave the FA's options severely limited. It could force them to speed up a decision on Capello or approach Hodgson in a bid to make him delay a decision on his future.
But another possible candidate for the England job, Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp, said: 'They (the FA) have got a manager and until he's not the manager it's difficult to talk about it.
'But I'm English. There's not an Englishman who would turn the job down because it's our country and we want to manage our country.'
Redknapp attacked the FA's foreign policy, saying on talkSport radio: 'Could you imagine an Englishman managing the Italian national team. It doesn't happen. The Germans are the same. We've ended up with two foreign managers.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290371/Roy-Hodgson-close-Anfield-arrival-Fulham-boss-opts-Liverpool--EXCLUSIVE.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0sDqN0paP (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290371/Roy-Hodgson-close-Anfield-arrival-Fulham-boss-opts-Liverpool--EXCLUSIVE.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0sDqN0paP)
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/England-manager-Fabio-Capello-proclaims-Bobby-Zamora-Owen-Hargreaves-and-Michael-Dawson-as-the-future-hope-of-England-article500663.html (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/England-manager-Fabio-Capello-proclaims-Bobby-Zamora-Owen-Hargreaves-and-Michael-Dawson-as-the-future-hope-of-England-article500663.html)
Capello proclaims Bobby Zamora as England's great hope
Do you want to know how bad it is, how little hope we should hold out that it is going to get any better?
Well, just listen to Fabio Capello's reasons for England optimism. And then think about weeping.
The day after the night before should have been about realisation and acceptance, about understanding England's World Cup exit was no longer about excuses.
Instead, after once more insisting England were beaten by Germany because of Uruguayan referee Jorge Larrionda and his assistant, Capello then earmarked the eight players he now believes could change the Three Lions' fortunes.
Capello said: "Me and my staff, and also Sir Dave Richards, we have spoken about the younger players who can play in the next qualification, the players that are coming through and can be with us.
"I think we are finding two or three new players, probably.
"Adam Johnson is one. Another is Kieron Gibbs, the Arsenal left-back. Also Michael Dawson. He is not young but he can be back with us.
"Then we also have Gabriel Agbonlahor and Bobby Zamora. He is not young but he was injured this time. We spoke about this.
"Another player I hope will be fit is Owen Hargreaves. He didn't play but is a midfielder we wanted."
Asked if he might have compounded his own felony by picking the oldest squad in the World Cup, Capello added, witheringly: "Where are the young players?
"The best younger ones are in the under-21s. And they're not good enough to play here, although they may be at the next one, I hope.
"Maybe in the next year or six months. Like Theo Walcott. I hope he can play and recovers. Jack Wilshire is another interesting player, another good player, who we are looking for."
So that is it, that is the blueprint. All eight are decent players, some of them will indeed become England stalwarts of the future.
But this is a list that includes two wingers Capello did not deem good enough to select for his 23 and the only central defender who went to South Africa and did not kick a ball.
A left-back who has been out with a broken foot since November and a teenage midfielder who has never made a league start for his own club and is likely to be farmed out on loan again next season.
Another midfielder who has played just 30 seconds for Manchester United since September 2008, a striker dumped after three appearances and another who, at 29, has scored a grand total of 40 Premier League goals in SEVEN seasons.
Blimey. You don't get much for £6million a year these days, do you?
If ever you needed further evidence of the poverty of English football, and indeed the paucity of Capello's thinking in the aftermath of humiliation, it does not come more graphic.
Last night's tip-toe dance round the issue, with a two-week hiatus for the FA to see if the pressure for Capello to go dissipates and saves Wembley chiefs the £12m pay-out he would be due under his contract, summed up the mess.
But even discounting Capello's insistence that Germany assistant manager Oliver Bierhoff - his former charge at AC Milan - had told him during a chance meeting at Bloemfontein Airport Joachim Loew's side would have been on the rocks if Frank Lampard's second "goal" had counted, his thinking seemed muddled.
"I think you can decide different styles, but always good style depends on the form of the players," Capello added. "You can play different styles. We've played this style for a long time and the results were always very good.
"We beat Germany in Germany, but not here. I know this one is more important, but sometimes I think you can change things during the game. I choose the style always depending on the kind of players that I have in my squad.
"I have the appetite to rebuild the team. I don't stop, never. We are speaking about the future? For this reason, yes.
"For the European Championship qualification, I need to find the confidence again. When we play the months from September to December, we are sure we will play very well, no problem.
"But always the last result is the most important thing.
"Germany, when they played on the counter-attack, were faster than us. It was that speed but I am angry about the goals we conceded, really angry. Of the five goals we conceded, three were avoidable.
"If you lose, you have made mistakes. I prepare everything well, I chose the best players at that moment and also the first 11 was always the best. But the value of the teams in the World Cup is really high.
"When they decided to pick me to be the manager, I spoke with the people who were with me and they decided to give me this money. But it's not about the money. It's the value of the man."
Shares in this Capello Index have gone down, markedly. And the price hasn't bottomed out yet. Nor, it seems, have England.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/World-Cup-England-goalkeeper-David-James-vows-not-to-quit-international-football-article500841.html (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/World-Cup-England-goalkeeper-David-James-vows-not-to-quit-international-football-article500841.html)
James: I won't quit international football
David James last night promised he will not quit international football after claiming England were unlucky to lose to Germany.
Veteran keeper James, who turns 40 on August 1, was beaten four times as England's fiercest rivals ran riot but still claims Frank Lampard's disallowed "goal" was the turning point.
But despite the devastating defeat, James claims England are unfortunate to have been sent home packing from the World Cup and claimed Germany were "vulnerable" and had glaring "weaknesses."
James said: "Germany give the opposition opportunities. If they play Argentina, I know who my money would be on. They (Germany) give too many opportunities; there is vulnerability there.
"Unfortunately, we only unlocked Germany twice and one of them didn't count.
"We've identified weaknesses. I'm not criticizing anyone because they're a good side but we put the balls in the box and given ourselves chances to score goals.
"Frank Lampard's header and Matt Upson's header were the result of them having a weakness for balls in the box, despite being a tall side. They were vulnerable at the back.
"There was disappointment because of the scoreline and the sense of irony that the crucial moment was Frank Lampard's 'not allowed' goal that was clearly over the line.
"Given that we were putting them under a lot of pressure at the time it would have put us on parity and we would have gone in at half time in much more positive mood.
"We didn't want to get knocked out at and a couple of vital moments like the not allowed goal and Germany's brilliance at counter attacking football has made the difference."
James, who becomes a free agent on July 1, also insists that he will never quit international football as he prepares to join a new club with Fulham leading the hunt as they look to replace Arsenal-bound Mark Schwarzer.
James added: "Do I want to carry on? Well it's my first tournament. I didn't want to go home tomorrow. There's some young goalkeeper coming through - some of them are very good.
"There will never be a retirement from me as long as I'm playing football. I've seen the younger goalkeepers we've got and some of are pretty good. Hopefully, they will put themselves in the position and do the right thing for England."
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Liverpool-confident-Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-will-snub-England-to-become-their-new-manager-article501065.html (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Liverpool-confident-Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-will-snub-England-to-become-their-new-manager-article501065.html)
Liverpool confident Hodgson will snub England for Anfield
Liverpool are confident Fabio Capello's uncertain England future will not affect their deal to bring Roy Hodgson to Anfield.
The Fulham manager was immediately installed as the strong favourite to be the next boss of the national team, following the dismal World Cup exit at the hands of Germany.
There is growing pressure for Capello to quit his role after a disastrous campaign in South Africa, with many fans desperate to see an Englishman installed to lead the country.
But the Anfield board are confident that Hodgson will complete his move to Merseyside despite late interest from the FA, to the extent that they could even unveil him at a ceremony at the end of this week.
After an exhaustive search, which saw them interview Didier Deschamps, Frank Rijkaard and Mauricio Pellegrini, the Reds chiefs have settled on Hodgson as the leading candidate, because of his tactical knowledge and experience of the Premier League.
Ironically, those are qualities that many people want to see the next England manager have, but Liverpool remain on course to announce the veteran boss as the man to succeed Rafa Benitez within the next few days.
Capello remained adamant yesterday he will not quit in the wake of the South African debacle, but will meet Sir Dave Richards in a fortnight to finalise whether he is staying on.
But the feeling at Anfield is that Hodgson is committed to becoming their next manager, even with the temptation of an England role being dangled in front of him.
The former Inter Milan boss has been the top target since Benitez left a month ago, despite the rival claims of an impressive short-list of candidates.
Crucially, his impending appointment has already got the thumbs-up from the club's senior stars, with the Reds board confident Hodgson can keep influential players like Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Jamie Carragher.
Benitez, meanwhile, is ready to offer Argie international Esteban Cambiasso as a makeweight in his bid to raid Anfield and take Javier Mascherano with him to Inter Milan.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/8721942.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/8721942.stm)
Roy Hodgson poised to become new Liverpool manager
Roy Hodgson is set to be appointed Liverpool's new manager by Thursday, BBC Sport understands.
The Reds were granted permission to speak to the 62-year-old two weeks ago by his current club Fulham.
Hodgson has also been linked with the England manager's job following the team's humiliating exit from the World Cup but Liverpool have acted quickly.
The Englishman will replace Rafael Benitez in the Anfield hot seat after the Spaniard left at the start of June.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/paulfletcher/2010/06/ghana_keep_the_dream_alive.html#226671 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/paulfletcher/2010/06/ghana_keep_the_dream_alive.html#226671)
Ghana keep Africa's dream alive
The reaction that followed Ghana's victory over the USA on a smoky Rustenburg evening told of the joy, excitement and, perhaps, relief that an African team remains in the World Cup.
Ghanaian journalists jumped up and down in the media area yelling "Africa" over and over and over, while several of the Black Stars players fell to their knees in prayer and goalkeeper Richard Kingson, excellent on the night but third choice at club side Wigan, raised his arms in thanks.
Down on the running track that surrounded the pitch at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, John Pantsil did his familiar lap of honour with the Black Stars flag.
Not far behind was Samuel Inkoom, who waved the flag of South Africa. The gesture was in recognition of the support his team had received from the huge number of local fans inside the ground and across South Africa.
Most locals that I had chatted to before the game had expressed their support for Ghana but, even so, I was astonished by the sheer number of Ghana flags being proudly waved inside the stadium after the final whistle.
Make no mistake, Ghana's 2-1 extra-time victory over the USA will resonate far beyond the borders of the west African nation.
"It means a lot to all Ghanaians and Africa as a whole," said right-back Pantsil.
Ghanaian footballing legend Abedi Pele, whose son Andre Ayew impressed as part of an attacking midfield trio, was on the team that made Africa's presentation to Fifa during the bidding process.
"It is a wonderful night for African football," said the former Marseille favourite.
"People said we could not organise a World Cup and that an African team could not go far. We have proved people wrong."
I thought that Ghana, who became the third African nation to reach the last eight at a World Cup after Cameroon and Senegal, deserved their victory.
They had not scored from open play in this tournament and had failed to find the net more than once in a fixture in 2010. Their Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac had been accused of favouring overly defensive tactics with his 4-2-3-1 formation.
But against the States, the Black Stars approached the match with a power and purpose that their opponents seemed unable to resist.
Kevin-Prince Boateng gave Ghana an early lead and the Americans were being swamped in midfield to the extent that coach Bob Bradley withdrew struggling midfielder Ricardo Clark after just 30 minutes.
Ghana, with an average age of just over 24, surrendered the initiative after the break and invited their opponents, who equalised from the penalty spot, back into the contest. If the Americans had a clinical striker they might have won in normal time.
That Ghana do possess a top-rate forward in Asamoah Gyan proved crucial. The way he controlled a long ball forward with his chest and held off two American defenders before unleashing a rasping left-foot strike was an exhibition of classic forward play.
That winning goal came in the opening minutes of extra-time and an American team that had invested so much in drawing level proved unable to rouse themselves once more.
Several American players sat motionless in the dugout for what seemed like an age after the final whistle. Later, Landon Donovan moved through the mixed zone, where players answer questions from journalists, with the glazed expression of someone who has just received devastating news.
A few players talked about the four years of hard work that had gone into reaching this stage and I sensed a feeling of disbelief that they had blown an excellent opportunity to progress beyond the round of 16.
It would be an entirely understandable emotion. The US topped Group C to move into what looked like the favourable side of the draw - Ghana, followed by a quarter-final tie against either Uruguay or South Korea stood between them and a place in the last four. All are below the USA in the Fifa rankings.
Uruguay have performed well here in South Africa and defeated South Korea on Saturday afternoon - but I think that most teams would be happy to play them at the quarter-final stage given that so many of the world's top teams remain in the competition.
Whether Bradley's team have wasted a glorious opportunity to transform the popularity and profile of the sport back home is another matter.
There has certainly been a recent groundswell of opinion to suggest that the World Cup was making a strong impression in the US.
Supporters of Bradley's team bought more tickets than any other nation travelling to South Africa, while ESPN reported record viewing figures for the 1-0 victory over Algeria in the USA's final group game.
Bradley received a call from President Barack Obama after the late goal against Algeria. Obama had been in a meeting with General David Petraeus when Donovan struck the injury-time winner, but he could hear celebrations all the way down the West Wing.
A story relating to Donovan's private life even made front page news in the New York Post - a sure sign that the profile of the game is on the rise.
"You are getting people who follow basketball and American football taking an interest and getting behind the team," said former USA midfielder John Harkes, who has been working for ESPN in South Africa.
"American fans always love big events. I think a lot of people were waking up to the World Cup and thinking it is pretty cool."
Yet the record ESPN viewing figures were 6.1m, which might be impressive for a midweek match that kicked-off at 10am on the east coast and 7am on the west coast, but hardly strikes me as indicative of a wide-scale surge in popularity in a country of 307m.
Several American journalists told me that the World Cup will help boost the profile of the sport back home but that it is unlikely to have been a game-changer.
The fact that former US president Bill Clinton was at the fixture is unlikely to have gone unnoticed in the US. He was sat next to Mick Jagger but I doubt whether he derived much satisfaction from the result.
While the US reflect on what might have been, Ghana will now play Uruguay at Soccer City on 2 July.
It looked very possible at one point that none of the six African teams at this tournament would qualify from their group - but the Black Stars find themselves just one match away from becoming the first nation from the continent to reach a World Cup semi-final.
And you can expect most of Africa to be behind them as they attempt to make history.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290397/Birmingham-rejoin-race-Standard-Liege-striker-Dieumerci-Mbokani.html (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290397/Birmingham-rejoin-race-Standard-Liege-striker-Dieumerci-Mbokani.html)
Birmingham rejoin race for Standard Liege striker Dieumerci Mbokani
Birmingham are back in for Standard Liege striker Dieumerci Mbokani after his proposed move to Fulham fell through.
Mbokani, 24, would cost around £8m and has also attracted interest from Lazio.
He said: 'I have spoken with Birmingham and my agent has had talks with Lazio.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290397/Birmingham-rejoin-race-Standard-Liege-striker-Dieumerci-Mbokani.html#ixzz0sDtq5pxZ (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290397/Birmingham-rejoin-race-Standard-Liege-striker-Dieumerci-Mbokani.html#ixzz0sDtq5pxZ)
http://www.insidefutbol.com/2010/06/29/liverpool-ready-to-announce-roy-hodgson-deal-this-week/26268/? (http://www.insidefutbol.com/2010/06/29/liverpool-ready-to-announce-roy-hodgson-deal-this-week/26268/?)
Liverpool Ready to Announce Roy Hodgson Deal This Week
Reports in England suggest Roy Hodgson will be appointed as Liverpool's new boss later this week, possibly as early as Thursday. The report by BBC Sport has identified Hodgson as the Anfield board's choice and revealed that Liverpool were granted permission to speak to the 62-year-old two weeks ago.
Given that Liverpool have been able to talk to Hodgson for such a long period of time it appears strange that the club still approached Marseille as recently as last week, asking for permission to speak to Didier Deschamps. This comes after other reports indicated Liverpool were also keen on Galatasaray coach Frank Rijkaard.
Liverpool have felt that they needed to move quickly to secure the services of Hodgson who was immediately installed as the bookmakers' favourite to replace Fabio Capello should the Italian leave his position as England coach.
The appointment of Hodgson is likely to underwhelm Liverpool fans, with the majority of supporters' polls showing a large majority opposed to his arrival.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2890/world-cup-2010/2010/06/29/2000743/world-cup-2010-england-squad-arrive-home-as-fabio-capello? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2890/world-cup-2010/2010/06/29/2000743/world-cup-2010-england-squad-arrive-home-as-fabio-capello?)
World Cup 2010: England squad arrive home as Fabio Capello insists Bobby Zamora & Owen Hargreaves are the future
Three Lions touch down on home soil...
Fabio Capello's England squad arrived home at 6:20 BST this morning, finally bringing an end to what has been a painful World Cup campaign for Three Lions supporters.
The squad will doubtless be expecting a hostile reaction to their performances in the coming days.
There is also much speculation about the future of Capello, with the Italian yesterday confirming that he expects to learn his fate in a fortnight or so.
The players themselves looked tired as they left the plane and headed for waiting cars, with few smiles on faces.
Capello has hinted that he intends to stay on as manager, and has named some of the players around whom he expects to build a team that can make a real impact at Euro 2012.
"Me and my staff, and also Sir Dave Richards, we have spoken about the younger players who can play in the next qualification, the players that are coming through and can be with us," Capello told reporters.
"I think we are finding two or three new players, probably.
"Adam Johnson is one. Another is Kieran Gibbs, the Arsenal left-back. Also Michael Dawson. He is not young but he can be back with us.
"Then we also have Gabriel Agbonlahor and Bobby Zamora. He is not young but he was injured this time. We spoke about this.
"Another player I hope will be fit is Owen Hargreaves. He didn't play but is a midfielder we wanted."
Capello did receive some criticism for the age of the squad he picked in South Africa, but he maintains that his hands were tied by the quality of player available to him.
"Where are the young players?" he asked.
"The best younger ones are in the under-21s. And they're not good enough to play here, although they may be at the next one, I hope.
"Maybe in the next year or six months. Like Theo Walcott. I hope he can play and recovers. Jack Wilshire is another interesting player, another good player, who we are looking for."
Capello also discounted suggestions that his tactics had been wrong for the tournament, with his key players shoehorned into unfamiliar roles.
"I think you can decide different styles, but always good style depends on the form of the players," he explained.
"You can play different styles. We've played this style for a long time and the results were always very good.
"We beat Germany in Germany, but not here. I know this one is more important, but sometimes I think you can change things during the game. I choose the style always depending on the kind of players that I have in my squad.
"I have the appetite to rebuild the team. I don't stop, never. We are speaking about the future? For this reason, yes.
"For the European Championship qualification, I need to find the confidence again. When we play the months from September to December, we are sure we will play very well, no problem.
"But always the last result is the most important thing.
"Germany, when they played on the counter-attack, were faster than us. It was that speed but I am angry about the goals we conceded, really angry. Of the five goals we conceded, three were avoidable.
"If you lose, you have made mistakes. I prepare everything well, I chose the best players at that moment and also the first 11 was always the best. But the value of the teams in the World Cup is really high.
"When they decided to pick me to be the manager, I spoke with the people who were with me and they decided to give me this money. But it's not about the money. It's the value of the man."
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/06/29/2000739/liverpool-look-to-frustrate-england-and-appoint-roy-hodgson? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/06/29/2000739/liverpool-look-to-frustrate-england-and-appoint-roy-hodgson?)
Liverpool look to frustrate England and appoint Roy Hodgson as new boss by end of week - report
Liverpool are set to confirm the appointment of Fulham manager Roy Hodgson as successor to Rafael Benitez by the end of this week, according to a report from The Daily Mail.
The 62-year-old has been reported as being the Anfield hierarchy's first choice for the job, but their pursuit of him has been complicated by the reports claiming that he is also the FA's first choice should Fabio Capello leave his job as England manager.
Capello announced yesterday that he expects his future to be sorted out within the next two weeks.
The FA may yet attempt to persuade Hodgson to delay his decision on taking the Anfield job, but the Reds are apparently keen to tie the deal up by the weekend.
http://www.clubcall.com/liverpool/reds-to-reveal-hodgson-1073957.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/liverpool/reds-to-reveal-hodgson-1073957.html?)
Reds to reveal Hodgson
Liverpool will announce Roy Hodgson of Fulham as their new manager on Thursday, according to reports.
The Reds have been on the trail for a new manager since the departure of Rafa Benitez to Inter Milan and Craven Cottage boss Hodgson has always been close to the top of their list.
The Reds are thought to have agreed a deal with Fulham over a compensation fee and Hodgson should be in a position to take up his role by Thursday.
Liverpool have moved quickly to secure a move for Hodgson because he had been linked with the England role following the national side's debacle at the World Cup in South Africa.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2890/world-cup-2010/2010/06/29/2000743/fabio-capello-reveals-post-crisis-england-plans-from-jack? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2890/world-cup-2010/2010/06/29/2000743/fabio-capello-reveals-post-crisis-england-plans-from-jack?)
Fabio Capello reveals post-crisis England plans: From Jack Wilshere and Adam Johnson to Bobby Zamora, Owen Hargreaves and more
Three Lions touch down on home soil...
Fabio Capello's England squad arrived home at 6:20 BST this morning, finally bringing an end to what has been a painful World Cup campaign for Three Lions supporters.
The squad will doubtless be expecting a hostile reaction to their performances in the coming days.
There is also much speculation about the future of Capello, with the Italian yesterday confirming that he expects to learn his fate in a fortnight or so.
The players themselves looked tired as they left the plane and headed for waiting cars, with few smiles on faces.
Capello has hinted that he intends to stay on as manager, and has named some of the players around whom he expects to build a team that can make a real impact at Euro 2012.
"Me and my staff, and also Sir Dave Richards, we have spoken about the younger players who can play in the next qualification, the players that are coming through and can be with us," Capello told reporters.
"I think we are finding two or three new players, probably.
"Adam Johnson is one. Another is Kieran Gibbs, the Arsenal left-back. Also Michael Dawson. He is not young but he can be back with us.
"Then we also have Gabriel Agbonlahor and Bobby Zamora. He is not young but he was injured this time. We spoke about this.
"Another player I hope will be fit is Owen Hargreaves. He didn't play but is a midfielder we wanted."
Capello did receive some criticism for the age of the squad he picked in South Africa, but he maintains that his hands were tied by the quality of player available to him.
"Where are the young players?" he asked.
"The best younger ones are in the under-21s. And they're not good enough to play here, although they may be at the next one, I hope.
"Maybe in the next year or six months. Like Theo Walcott. I hope he can play and recovers. Jack Wilshire is another interesting player, another good player, who we are looking for."
Capello also discounted suggestions that his tactics had been wrong for the tournament, with his key players shoehorned into unfamiliar roles.
"I think you can decide different styles, but always good style depends on the form of the players," he explained.
"You can play different styles. We've played this style for a long time and the results were always very good.
"We beat Germany in Germany, but not here. I know this one is more important, but sometimes I think you can change things during the game. I choose the style always depending on the kind of players that I have in my squad.
"I have the appetite to rebuild the team. I don't stop, never. We are speaking about the future? For this reason, yes.
"For the European Championship qualification, I need to find the confidence again. When we play the months from September to December, we are sure we will play very well, no problem.
"But always the last result is the most important thing.
"Germany, when they played on the counter-attack, were faster than us. It was that speed but I am angry about the goals we conceded, really angry. Of the five goals we conceded, three were avoidable.
"If you lose, you have made mistakes. I prepare everything well, I chose the best players at that moment and also the first 11 was always the best. But the value of the teams in the World Cup is really high.
"When they decided to pick me to be the manager, I spoke with the people who were with me and they decided to give me this money. But it's not about the money. It's the value of the man."
http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/premier-league-football-news/2010/06/29/liverpool-fc-the-demands-holding-up-a-deal-for-roy-hodgson-97319-26747007/? (http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/premier-league-football-news/2010/06/29/liverpool-fc-the-demands-holding-up-a-deal-for-roy-hodgson-97319-26747007/?)
Liverpool FC: The demands holding up a deal for Roy Hodgson
Roy Hodgson will be appointed Liverpool boss this week once he has finalised a guaranteed transfer kitty.
Liverpool are prepared to meet Fulham's compensation demands to name Hodgson, 62, as Rafa Benitez's successor.
But the former Inter Milan and Switzerland manager wants a pledge of transfer funds before accepting the post.
Hodgson knows Liverpool's squad badly needs rebuilding after a desperately disappointing campaign.
But he is worried that the cash-strapped club, who are around £400million in debt, may not be able to back him sufficiently in the transfer market. Liverpoool's US owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have both admitted they are looking to sell the Premier League giants.
Liverpool also explored the possibility of recruiting Frank Rijkaard from Galatasaray but the Dutchman earns £6m a year and has a £2m buy-out clause.
Former England boss Sven Goran Eriksson is favourite to replace Hodgson at Craven Cottage.
http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_6236799,00.html? (http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_6236799,00.html?)
HODGSON EXPECTED AT LIVERPOOL THIS WEEK
Roy Hodgson is expected to be confirmed as Liverpool's new manager this week.
The Anfield hierarchy are reported to be confident that Hodgson will be installed as Rafa Benitez's successor in the next few days, despite the potential availability of the England national job. Were he still to be in the running following the two-week review of Fabio Capello's work at the World Cup that is widely expected to result in the Italian's dismissal, Hodgson would be the clear favourite to assume the role.
Instead, it would seem as if the 62-year-old has opted to take on the challenge of managing one of the game's biggest football clubs despite their present-day financial status of paupers.
The Times even kicks off its report on the imminent arrival of Hodgson on Merseyside with the announcement that 'his first job will be to field formal offers for the club's crown jewels, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres.'
According to the newspaper, 'Real Madrid have tabled a £20 million take-it-or-leave-it bid for the England captain, whom Liverpool value at £35 million. Torres, the Spain striker, would cost in excess of £60 million, but Chelsea and Real are aware that Liverpool's precarious financial situation allows the opportunity to acquire their players at knockdown prices. There were suggestions last night that the London club's initial offer could be as low as £25 million.'
Nor should Hodgson expect to receive the bulk of any such funds recouped from sales for squad reinvestment.
'Hodgson will be consulted over any decision to sell, but can expect to receive only a small proportion of any money raised,' says The Times.
The news begs the obvious question: Is the England job really so undesirable?
http://www.imscouting.com/global-news-article/Report-Hodgson-will-be-Liverpool-manager-by-Thursday/8579/? (http://www.imscouting.com/global-news-article/Report-Hodgson-will-be-Liverpool-manager-by-Thursday/8579/?)
Report: Hodgson will be Liverpool manager by Thursday
Fulham's Roy Hodgson will be appointed as the new manager of Liverpool by Thursday, according to the BBC.
The 62-year-old has always been considered the front-runner to succeed Rafa Benitez at Anfield as he apparently fulfils all six criteria set out by Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow and Kenny Dalglish for Benitez's successor.
Hodgson has maintained a dignified silence over the speculation that he will join Liverpool, although it has been assumed that he would like to manage another big club before he retires.
BBC Radio 5 Live's senior football reporter Ian Dennis said, "Hodgson has always been the number one target of the board at Anfield to replace Benitez,
"After Fulham granted permission to speak to Hodgson, it was just a matter of the clubs agreeing a compensation deal for him."
The BBC reports that Hodgson's appointment will be announced by Thursday. In addition to Fulham, Hodgson has also managed Italian giants Inter Milan, Blackburn and Switzerland, who he guided to the last 16 of the 1994 World Cup.
One of Hodgson's first tasks will be to try to persuade Liverpool's star players such as Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard to remain at Anfield.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290486/Birmingham-boss-Alex-McLeish-falls-short-1-6m-bid-Nigeria-striker-Peter-Odemwingie.html?ITO=1490 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290486/Birmingham-boss-Alex-McLeish-falls-short-1-6m-bid-Nigeria-striker-Peter-Odemwingie.html?ITO=1490)
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish falls way short with £1.6m bid for Nigeria striker Peter Odemwingie
Birmingham have failed in a 'ridiculous' £1.6million bid to sign Nigeria World Cup striker Peter Odemwingie from Lokomotiv Moscow.
The 28-year-old was put on the market before the tournament in South Africa, with Lokomotiv looking asking about £8.5m for a player with just a year left on his current contract.
Everton, Fulham and French teams have also shown interest in Odemwingie, but Birmingham are the only team to table a former bid.
Lokomotiv president Nikolay Naumov said: 'The offer from Birmingham of €2m (£1.6m) seemed ridiculous to us.'
Odemwingie is keen to test himself in England and believes his club must lower their asking price to a more realistic level.
Lokomotiv had considered offering him in part-exchange for Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, but have been told that the Russia striker now wants to stay in England after mulling his future this summer.
Lokomotiv have responded by offering Odemwingie a new contract.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290486/Birmingham-boss-Alex-McLeish-falls-short-1-6m-bid-Nigeria-striker-Peter-Odemwingie.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0sEOUVcOI (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1290486/Birmingham-boss-Alex-McLeish-falls-short-1-6m-bid-Nigeria-striker-Peter-Odemwingie.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0sEOUVcOI)
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/183758/Roy-Hodgson-s-Anfield-call-up-cuts-options? (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/183758/Roy-Hodgson-s-Anfield-call-up-cuts-options?)
ROY HODGSON'S ANFIELD CALL-UP CUTS OPTIONS
LIVERPOOL are set to deepen England's World Cup crisis by finally sealing Roy Hodgson's appointment as their new manager.
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson, who took the club to the Europa League final last season, would be a key target for the Football Association if they dispense with Fabio Capello, but Liverpool are confident he will commit with them. Talks over a minor compensation package between the clubs started last week and Anfield officials expect the final details to be resolved within days.
Tottenham will look to tie up a new contract with boss Harry Redknapp to ensure he does not become a viable alternative to Capello as well.
http://fourfourtwo.com/news/worldcup2010/58846/default.aspx? (http://fourfourtwo.com/news/worldcup2010/58846/default.aspx?)
Pantsil: Ghana to maintain winning game plan
JOHANNESBURG - Ghana will stick to the tactics that have proved successful so far in the World Cup when they take on Uruguay for a place in the semi-finals, defender John Pantsil said on Monday.
The team, which became only the third African nation ever to advance to the quarter final stage of the World Cup, also had no fears about dealing with the attacking qualities the South Americans had shown so far in the tournament, players said.
"I don't think there is anything to change in our game. We are going to stay with our game plan - just relax and play our normal, good football and keep our positions and heads together," Pantsil told Ghana FA website.
Under Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac, Ghana, the only African team to make it through the group stage, have impressed many with their stubborn defence and the creativity in the midfield of Kevin-Prince Boateng and Dede Ayew.
However, coach Rajevac is racing against time to have his squad ready for the game in Johannesburg on Friday following injuries to key players and the suspension of Ayew and Jonathan Mensah.
Boateng also limped out of their hard-fought second round game against the United States, and is undergoing intensive therapy for a hamstring injury.
Rajevac had said it would be a huge problem getting him ready for the game on Friday, while several other players including defender Samuel Inkoom are also struggling with niggling injuries.
"We'll try our best on the injured players and make sure they are ready," Rajevac said.
ULTIMATE DREAM
Despite the injuries and suspension concerns, the Ghanaians are confident of making history by being the first African nation to reach the last four of the World Cup.
"We're not worried about Uruguay. When we qualified to play the USA, we weren't worried and we won, so we're going to do the same thing," said 19-year-old defender Jonathan Mensah.
Inkoom was more forthright with his predictions and confidence, seeing Ghana in the final and winning the trophy.
"We are ready to live the ultimate dream," the 20-year-old midfielder told FIFA website (www.fifa.com (http://www.fifa.com))
"I told the coach we would win," he said of the game against Uruguay. "I don't think Uruguay will be easy but I think we are capable of winning," he added.
http://www.birminghampost.net/midlands-birmingham-sport/west-midlands-sports/birmingham-city-fc/2010/06/29/birmingham-city-still-hoping-to-land-paul-konchesky-65233-26749078/? (http://www.birminghampost.net/midlands-birmingham-sport/west-midlands-sports/birmingham-city-fc/2010/06/29/birmingham-city-still-hoping-to-land-paul-konchesky-65233-26749078/?)
Birmingham City still hoping to land Paul Konchesky
Fulham defender Paul Konchesky is still the top left-back target for Birmingham City, despite reports that Blues boss Alex McLeish is also keen on a World Cup star.
Reports in the Far East have suggested that McLeish is weighing up a move for Japan's Yuto Nagatomo.
The Blues boss spent time in South Africa for the early part of the tournament and has admitted that he would consider recruiting from the World Cup if it made financial sense.
The left-back berth is a priority for McLeish as his current options are either makeshift candidates or David Murphy, who has not played since fracturing his kneecap in April 2009.
As well as Nagatomo, Hearts' Scotland international Lee Wallace is another left-back being linked with a move to the Premier League.
However, McLeish is still hoping to tie up a deal for his top target, Konchesky.
The uncertainty over Fulham boss Roy Hodgson's future at Craven Cottage is currently holding up any move for the former England defender, who is said to be keen on coming to St Andrew's.
Hodgson is one of the favourites for the vacant Liverpool manager's job.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/philmcnulty/2010/06/hodgson_perfect_for_liverpool.html? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/philmcnulty/2010/06/hodgson_perfect_for_liverpool.html?)
Hodgson perfect for Liverpool
s Roy Hodgson attempted to give his nomadic career new direction with a spell in the United Arab Emirates earlier this decade, the notion of Liverpool and England fighting for his services seemed a distant prospect.
And yet, while Liverpool close in on Hodgson as Rafael Benitez's successor and the Football Association debates Fabio Capello's future as England coach, the 62-year-old Londoner has emerged as the prime candidate for two of the biggest posts in football.
Hodgson, barring a late FA intervention, is expected to be confirmed as Liverpool boss in the next 48 hours, mainly as a result of his outstanding work at Fulham, where a rescue from relegation months after his appointment in December 2007 was followed by a dream run to last season's Europa League final.
Fulham's defeat by Atletico Madrid looks to have been his farewell to the banks of the Thames as he now prepares to move to Merseyside.
And while Hodgson's arrival may get a muted response in some quarters, Liverpool's current reality makes him the perfect appointment.
There may be disquiet among some Liverpool fans that the romantic option of Kenny Dalglish's return has not been explored, particularly after one of Anfield's iconic figures made it clear he wanted to resume the job he left in 1991.
Hodgson and Dalglish have been friends from the days when Liverpool used to warm up for title-winning campaigns by playing Hodgson's Malmo side in Sweden, so the suggestion the Scot will sulk in the background as some malign influence after missing out is unlikely.
It has been a long road from Carshalton Athletic to Anfield for Hodgson, taking in Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Finland and the UAE - plus a spell at Blackburn Rovers - before reviving Fulham.
He may not be the stellar name many on the Kop will have wanted when Benitez ended his six-year reign earlier in June, but Liverpool's reduced circumstances call for the sort of common sense management Hodgson can apply.
The Reds can offer any manager a rich history but what they cannot put on the table is Champions League football or vast riches to rebuild a troubled team. The idea someone of Jose Mourinho's status may have been tempted to Liverpool originated in dreamland, even before the former Chelsea manager won the Champions League at Inter Milan and moved to Real Madrid.
Boring as it might sound to some, Liverpool need a pair of safe hands that will restore dignity and credibility to Anfield after times of turbulence on and off the field.
Hodgson is a deep thinker about football and other things besides, as an avid reader of Milan Kundera, John Updike and Philip Roth. Liverpool will hope he can apply the intelligence gleaned throughout a long career to rebuild one of the fallen giants of the game.
A close study of his work at Craven Cottage confirms he fulfils all requirements at Liverpool. Listen to Anfield old boy Danny Murphy, speaking in Hamburg on the night before the Europa League final.
"The manager doesn't sprinkle magic dust on us," said Murphy. "The manager and his staff work damn hard to make sure the lads know their jobs. He does his research on players and the mentality of players who come into the club. He is a manager who organises his team well."
There are other facets of Hodgson's character that will have appealed to Liverpool's power brokers as they drew up their shortlist.
If he had any difficulties behind the scenes with Fulham's flamboyant chairman Mohamed Al Fayed, he never chose to air them in public. In contrast, Benitez's tiresome politicking added to Anfield's instability at a time when there was more than enough to go around.
Hodgson will arrive at a delicate period for Liverpool, with the search for new owners ongoing and yet to bear fruit, leaving the dysfunctional tenure of Tom Hicks and George Gillett still in place.
As someone with vast experience, Hodgson will know the obstacles that may await him at Anfield but his measured approach will suit the situation.
And, crucially in Liverpool's financial state, Hodgson has shown a sure touch when working the markets without the aid of a plentiful budget and without complaint.
He mastered the art of renewing careers at Fulham, with Murphy, Damien Duff, Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora prime examples. Hodgson's eye for a bargain enabled him to sign Brede Hangeland relatively cheaply and turn him into one of the most coveted defenders in the Premier League.
He has earned huge respect - and not only from those inside football. When Fulham beat Hamburg to reach the Europa League final, his arrival at his after-match press conference was greeted with the rare accolade of spontaneous applause from assembled journalists, such was the scale of his achievement.
And Liverpool will embrace Hodgson's ability to do his job without fuss and fanfare, just like old times at Anfield.
One of my abiding memories of last season was watching Hodgson stroll across Craven Cottage with his hand in his pocket as the old place went crazy after the victory over Hamburg. He navigated his way through the throng of players, celebrating or otherwise, lying on the turf, stopping only to console Hamburg's stars on his way off.
He will work with a small backroom staff, which Liverpool's hierarchy will find a refreshing change from the entire community that appeared to have been assembled by Benitez in his latter days at Anfield.
When Hodgson is appointed, he will need to work quickly to make changes to his squad. Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard are seen as easy targets, with Liverpool lacking in financial resources and the appeal of the Champions League.
Persuading them to stay will be top of his list of priorities - or, if not, ensuring the best deal is done to allow him to fashion a new-look team to prepare for life without them.
Liverpool's hierarchy have been lampooned with relish amid their recent traumas but they have restored a measure of their tattered reputation with the swiftness of Benitez's departure and the good sense shown by installing Hodgson.
It ranks alongside Inter Milan as the biggest job in Hodgson's career - but his work at Fulham alone suggests he is up to the task.
