Fulham say no Liverpool approach

The following story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club:

Liverpool have yet to make a formal approach for Fulham boss Roy Hodgson, the Londoners confirmed last night. Speculation has been mounting that Liverpool would seek talks with Hodgson before Wednesday, when he will fly out to South Africa to act as a BBC pundit.

But according to Goal.com, there has yet to be any contact from the Merseysiders.

Hodgson is believed to be Liverpool's main target as they search for a replacement for the departed Rafa Benitez. Support has been growing for Anfield legend Kenny Dalglish to take over on a short term basis, but it's believed that club officials are against the appointment and want to move quickly to appoint a new manager to avoid being pressured into a decision.

Hodgson has apparently made it clear he wants his future sorted out before he leaves for South Africa, but with just 24 hours left before he heads for the World Cup, it's increasing unlikely anything will be finalised.

Despite Liverpool's interest, Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed insists his manager will still be at the helm next season, and sees no reason why Hodgson would want to leave.

However, Hodgson would find it extremely difficult to turn down a club the size of Liverpool, and after guiding Fulham to a Europa League Final last season, he may feel he has taken the Cottagers as far as he can.

Liverpool are also keen to take advantage of Hodgson's contract situation, where-by he is on a 12-month rolling deal which includes a clause allowing him to leave for a top club for only £2.5m in compensation.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.