• Premier League

Hodgson backing Torres to 'explode'

ESPN staff
December 28, 2010
Fernando Torres has cut a dejected figure at times this season © Getty Images
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Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson is backing a "fitter" and "stronger" Fernando Torres to put a nightmare first half of the season behind him, declaring that the striker is about to "explode".

The Spaniard has endured a torrid five months, finding the net five times in 18 appearances. Torres' form looked to have turned the corner in November when his terrific double handed Liverpool an encouraging win over Chelsea but the 26-year-old is without a goal in four games.

However, Hodgson, who has always backed his star striker, expects the Spain international to return to the form that made him one of the most feared forwards in Europe.

"Fernando is getting stronger, fitter and more confident," he said in the Sun. "All he needs is a goal or two and then he'll explode.

"I watch him in training every day and he works very hard, but he's a front player and they play on unbelievably tight margins. All he needs is a couple of goals or a couple of good performances and you will see the Fernando Torres of old."

Liverpool host Wolves on Wednesday and Hodgson admitted he is excited by the prospect of skipper Steven Gerrard returning from a hamstring injury.

He said: "It is harder to find leaders in the world of football today. Steven helps all the players and you think of the great teams of the past and their leaders jump out at you."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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