my liverpool fc

ONLY Roy Hodgson can decide if he will become the next Liverpool manager.

That is the opinion of Fulham striker Clint Dempsey who is the latest Cottagers player to respond to mounting speculation linking Hodgson with a move to Anfield.

The Fulham boss is the firm favourite to succeed Rafa Benitez, who is set to be unveiled as the new Inter boss today after parting company with Liverpool by mutual consent last Thursday.

Earlier this week, Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer declared he “wouldn't blame” Hodgson if he took up the opportunity to join Liverpool.

Now Dempsey has joined Schwarzer by speaking out about the veteran coaches future.

Dempsey is in South Africa with the USA World Cup squad preparing for their opening Group C game against England in Rustenburg on Saturday.

Schwarzer said he would be disappointed to see Hodgson leave Craven Cottage this summer and Dempsey insists any decision lies with the 63-year-old should Liverpool make their move.

“If the coach wants to be there he will be there,” said Dempsey. “He has to do the best for him and his family.

“It is not something I can worry about. I am with Fulham for three more years and I will do my best for the club until something happens.

“If he wants to stay, let him stay. If he wants to go, let him go.”

But with the likes of Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp and Italy boss Marcello Lippi ruling themselves out of the running to replace Benitez, Hodgson – whose wife hails from Liverpool – heads an ever decreasing list of viable candidates.

Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill remains in the frame while former England and Manchester City chief, Sven Goran Eriksson, has revealed his lifelong support for Liverpool admitting he would dearly love to take the reins at Anfield.

There is also growing support among fans for Reds legend Kenny Dalglish to get the job on a permanent basis.

However, club ambassador Dalglish has been handed the task of helping managing director Christian Purslow locate the next incumbent of the Anfield hotseat and his advisory role could prove a stumbling block.

Meanwhile, reports in Italy claim Fiorentina are keen on taking Emiliano Insua to Serie A.

The Argentinian left-back endured a difficult season with Liverpool but that has not deterred La Viola.

However, Fabio Aurelio’s departure could prevent Insua moving on.

The Brazilian was told he can leave Anfield this summer after four injury-plagued years on Merseyside. That means 21-year-old Insua will be the only recognised senior left-back at the club.

FERNANDO TORRES made a scoring return for Spain last night as he came off the bench to net in the European champions 6-0 rout of Poland in their final World Cup warm-up in Murcia before heading for South Africa.

Labels: Roy Hodgson