Hodgson has backing of players, says saviour Cole

EMBATTLED Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has been given the backing of the Anfield dressing room from Joe Cole.

The spectre of Kenny Dalglish, the club’s legendary former player and manager, looms large over the 63-year-old’s shoulders as owners New England Sports Ventures consider who might be the best man to lead the club.

But Cole, who scored in added time to snatch all three points against Bolton, insists the squad are trying to ease the pressure on Hodgson.

“We all want to put this club in the right direction,” he said. “We are out there playing for the shirt and the manager. We’ve all got to stick together because there is no-one bigger than the club.

“I am really happy for everyone at the club; it has been a tough week for everyone – particularly the manager – but we have the win.

“None of us like losing and half the battle of football is dealing with pressure and kicking on. We’ve got to stick together and kick on from here - it can’t be a false dawn.”