Hodgson stands firm on Torres

16 July 2010 15:00
Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has insisted striker Fernando Torres is not for sale. The 26-year-old Spain international has been the subject of persistent speculation linking him with a big-money move away from Anfield this summer. Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona have all been mentioned as potential destinations but new boss Hodgson, having met Torres this week, has emphasised his determination to keep him. Hodgson took charge at Liverpool a fortnight ago but was unable to meet Torres at first due to the player's involvement in the World Cup in South Africa. Speaking at his team's pre-season training camp, Hodgson said: "I have met with Fernando. I found him to be a very pleasant man and we had a nice conversation. "As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player. He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him."

Source: PA