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Johnson clears the air with Hodgson

Glen Johnson scored Liverpool's opening goal against West Ham © Getty Images

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Glen Johnson has revealed he held talks with Roy Hodgson to resolve their differences after the Liverpool manager criticised his form.

Hodgson was quoted as saying that Johnson had not played like an England international, and was yet to prove himself since Hodgson's arrival at Anfield.

But despite a goal against former club West Ham in his return to action on Saturday, Johnson is first to admit he has not been at his best this season.

"Believe me, no-one wants me to find my best form more than me, and I was aware of what I had to do," Johnson said. "It was a little reminder from the boss, he told me that was what he meant by it.

"We spoke, and he explained he wanted it to help me, to push me and I said to him then, I don't need people to tell me, I know where I'm at in terms of form, and I knew it all already. The gaffer told me he has faith in my ability, we spoke and we cleared things up. Sometimes comments like that can be made to look more negative than they are meant.

"The boss explained that he didn't mean it in a negative way, just that he knew I had more to offer than I was showing, and wanted to get that from me."

Prior to Saturday, Johnson has played just one game since October 12 after suffering a groin injury, and he admits he has been frustrated by his form this season.

"No player wants to be injured, and it has been frustrating to me, to be out for so long," Johnson said. "The last seven games I haven't played, and it is impossible to improve your form if you are not out there, so it's been extra frustrating for me.

"I had some niggling injuries at the start of the season, and when you don't have that consistency it can affect your form. I'm not making excuses, but sometimes it is difficult."

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