Torres: Hodgson is right man for Liverpool

Hodgson appears to be sparking optimism on Merseyside (GETTY IMAGES)

Fernando Torres has declared he is pleased that Roy Hodgson has become Liverpool's new manager, though he has fallen short of committing his future to the club. Hodgson said last week that keeping Torres and Steven Gerrard are his priority and though Torres indicated he wants to talk to the new manager "soon", he reiterated that he will not consider his future until after the World Cup.

Asked what Hodgson would have to do to make Torres stay at Anfield, he said: "I have a contract so it is the reality now. My future is here now. South Africa is too important to think after that. I'm sure I will talk with him soon."

But Torres, whose outlook Manchester City are monitoring having already made inquiries last season, was positive about the new manager. "I was happy he got the job," Torres said of Hodgson. "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."