Hodgson takes over at Anfield

Roy Hodgson has been confirmed as Liverpool's new manager.

The 62-year-old takes over at Anfield on a three-year contract, 28 days after the departure of Rafael Benitez, who parted company with the Reds after a disappointing season saw them finish seventh in the table.

Hodgson, a former Inter Milan and Blackburn boss, was Liverpool's first choice despite a host of other names being mentioned.

It is believed it has cost Liverpool £2million to release the Englishman from his contract at Craven Cottage.

Former player and manager Kenny Dalglish, who was part of the selection process with managing director Christian Purslow and is currently an ambassador for the club's academy, had expressed an interest in returning to a role in which he enjoyed great success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, but was overlooked for the post.

Hodgson's name had been linked with England after their disappointing World Cup campaign under Fabio Capello, but negotiations were already at an advanced stage with the Merseysiders and the deal has now been completed.