Source: Telegraph
Liverpool's Roy Hodgson defends 'diabolical' Fernando Torres
The 26 year-old was lacklustre in the first half of the goalless draw with Birmingham City, triggering a verdict of 'diabolical and sloppy'' from the former Liverpool midfielder, Jamie Redknapp in the Sky studio.[LNB]"He's shown no appetite," he added. "He's looked fed up and lethargic."[LNB]Torres has scored just one goal in five appearances for the Merseyside club this season, but Hodgson is unconcerned.[LNB]'Torres worked very hard for the team,'' said Hodgson. 'By the end he was a constant thorn in Birming-ham's side. When Torres came into the centre, he caused havoc. We know he lacks match practice. I'm not at all concerned about Fernando Torres. He'll get better as the season goes on.''[LNB]Hodgson refused to be drawn on how Liverpool, currently 13th, would fare this season. 'If you are asking me whether Liverpool can win the league, I don't know. I find it faintly amusing people are discussing who will win the League in September.''[LNB]Hodgson sent a message of support for his old Fulham striker, Bobby Zamora, who broke his leg on Saturday. 'It's a cruel, cruel blow and the whole country, not just me, will wish him well,'' said Hodgson.[LNB]Another Spaniard, Pepe Reina drew praise from both Hodgson and Alex McLeish after his stunning saves denied Cameron Jerome and Craig Gardner.[LNB]'He's saved Liverpool from losing all three points,'' said McLeish, the Birmingham manager. 'He's a great keeper.'' Jerome and Gardner made strong purchase on the ball but each time Reina flung himself to his right to push the ball away.[LNB]'He's a very lithe, very agile keeper who does get down very quickly,'' said Hodgson. 'They were two magnificent crosses, and when they made such good contact I feared the worst but Pepe made two great saves.''[LNB]
