Source: Team_Talk
Hodgson strengthens Europa squad
Roy Hodgson has no qualms about bringing back Liverpool's big names for Europa League third qualifying round tie against Rabotnicki.[LNB] Despite holding a 2-0 lead from last week's first leg in Macedonia, the likes of Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher and new signing Joe Cole are likely to be involved having made their first pre-season appearances in a friendly against Borussia Monchengladbach at the weekend.[LNB]Argentina international Maxi Rodriguez could even be in the squad despite having returned from his post-World Cup break only 10 days ago.[LNB]Wantaway midfielder Javier Mascherano will not be selected as he was not registered for the early stages of the competition, whereas Hodgson admits they took a chance on the England contingent and Rodriguez being ready.[LNB]Spain duo Fernando Torres and Jose Reina and Holland pair Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel will not be considered as they only returned to training on Monday.[LNB]"I will put out the strongest team out it is possible to put out," said Hodgson.[LNB]"We are stronger on paper than we were in the first game because players that I did not consider using have now played at least 45 minutes on Sunday.[LNB]"That gives me a chance to throw them into the game. There are a few that are just back to Melwood after their holidays and we won't be risking them of course.[LNB]"But we will have a stronger squad than the one we took to Skopje.[LNB]"If they are senior players and they have been training with us for the last week or so since we got back and the medical people are confident we can use them without prejudicing their future we will use them."[LNB]"Our team wanted to get a positive result but in this match it was not possible."[LNB]Rabotnicki coach Zoran Stratev is already resigned to his team's fate, acknowledging they cannot even dream of competing with the likes of the five-time European champions.[LNB]"Macedonian football is at this level and I don't think we can do any more - but our fans may hope for something special in the match," he said.
