• Premier League

Hodgson denies Johnson rift talk

ESPN staff
November 20, 2010
Roy Hodgson is looking for Liverpool to climb the table

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has insisted there is no rift between himself and right back Glen Johnson.

Hodgson criticised Johnson earlier in the week, suggesting the defender was not playing like England's right back. The former Portsmouth man is said to have taken exception to the comments, while reports have linked Johnson with a move away from the club.

Anfield boss Hodgson has admitted it is "unfortunate" his comment has been jumped on, but insisted Johnson remains his first choice right back.

"My relationship with Johnson has been very good since I came to the club," Hodgson said. "He has always played when he has been fit.

"Obviously someone in his camp took exception to something I said which is unfortunate. But as I said, he is the Liverpool right back and the England right back and we are very happy to work him back into the team now he is fit again."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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