Hodgson stands firm on Torres

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has insisted striker Fernando Torres is not for sale.

The 26-year-old Spain international has been the subject of persistent speculation linking him with a big-money move away from Anfield this summer. Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona have all been mentioned as potential destinations but new boss Hodgson, having met Torres this week, has emphasised his determination to keep him.

Speaking at his team's pre-season training camp, Hodgson said: "I have met with Fernando. I found him to be a very pleasant man and we had a nice conversation. As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player."

The former Fulham boss added: "He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him."

Hodgson took charge at Liverpool a fortnight ago but was unable to meet Torres at first due to the player's involvement in the World Cup in South Africa.

"My conversation with him was only short because I had to leave to come to the training camp in Switzerland," he continued.

"We spoke about football, the World Cup, his injury, and I told him how much I am looking forward to working with him.

"Christian Purslow (Liverpool's managing director) was also at the meeting and chatted to Fernando for a lot longer after I left but my chat with him was only about football matters."