Hodgson reveals approaches

FULHAM will be under pressure to secure boss Roy Hodgson on a long-term contract after it emerged he turned down approaches from Norway as well as Sweden.

The 62-year-old’s current deal at Craven Cottage expires at the end of the season and discussions about an extension is not yet high on the agenda, although the demand for his services may force club officials to prioritise the issue.

Hodgson’s reputation across the continent has been long standing and has been bolstered by saving Fulham from relegation then taking them to the Europa League this season, with Italian giants Roma the opponents tonight.

After revealing he turned down Sweden and Norway, Hodgson said: “It’s very nice to be mentioned. I’ve made clear to the people that have contacted me that I have a contract here at Fulham and I intend to honour that contract. I am very happy here.’’

Facing Roma illustrates how far Hodgson has taken Fulham.

He will be attempting to beat Claudio Ranieri for the first time in his career, with the Roma coach also boasting a fine record against Fulham — he never lost to them while he was manager at Chelsea.

“We were very friendly when he was at Fiorentina and I was at Inter,” Hodgson said. “He’s one of the coaches I have had a very good rapport with.

“I’m pleased to see him back and working at such a club but I would have preferred not facing such a quality coach this week.”

The hosts are top of Group E, but Hodgson could rest players following the win over Hull on Monday and the Premier League trip to Manchester City coming up on Sunday. “It is the league that counts and we make no apologies for resting players because that is our priority,” Hodgson said.

Danny Murphy has a knee injury and could be out until after the international break, while Kagisho Dikgacoi is not on the UEFA list of registered players in the squad. Toni Kallio (achilles) and Simon Davies (foot) will also miss out, along with Dickson Etuhu and Andrew Johnson.