Pool ‘impossible to turn down’

ROY HODGSON has described his appointment as an opportunity that was “absolutely impossible to turn down”.

Hodgson was Liverpool’s first choice to replace Rafael Benitez, after the 62-year-old enjoyed a couple of impressive seasons at Fulham, which culminated in them reaching last season’s Europa League final.

Hodgson admitted it had been difficult to leave the west London club, where he had built up a bank of goodwill, but believes taking on the Anfield job will be a highlight of his long and varied managerial career that has included stints in charge of Inter Milan, Blackburn and the Finland national team.

“I’m extremely proud. The club’s tradition in terms of its football and its managers is really second to none, and it was an opportunity which was absolutely impossible to turn down. I am both proud and excited at the prospect of working as the Liverpool manager.

“I don’t think there are many jobs that would have tempted me away from Fulham, to be perfectly honest.

“I had such a good relationship with the chairman and the chief executive, the players were magnificent to work with and everything was as good as it gets, but on the other hand when there was a chance that Liverpool wanted me, and they asked to speak to me, I asked the chairman for permission.

“He wasn’t too happy to give it but fortunately for me this job came about and I am really happy to be here. It’d be foolish to compare but it’d also be dishonest to say anything other than it’s going to be a highlight of my career.

“I have worked long and hard to reach the level I have reached.”