Dempsey: Let Hodgson decide his future

The following story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club:

Clint Dempsey claims Roy Hodgson must be allowed to make up his own mind about whether he should quit Fulham for Liverpool.

Rafael Benitez's eviction from the Anfield hot-seat has created an attractive vacancy with the Merseyside giants that Hodgson has been tipped to fill.

The 63-year-old's star has risen dramatically over the last couple of years, first by keeping Fulham in the Premier League and then steering the Cottagers into Europe and, last term, into the Europa League final.

Little wonder Hodgson's name is near the top of Liverpool's hit-list, which could finally offer the former Switzerland coach a chance to make his mark with a big club in England.

Dempsey has starred in Fulham's attack and realises Hodgson would be a loss to the club.

But the United States star has no intention of calling for his manager to stay.

He firmly believes if an offer comes, Hodgson should go with his heart.

"If the coach wants to be there he will be there," said Dempsey. "He has to do the best for him and his family.

"It is not something I can worry about. I am with Fulham for three more years and I will do my best for them until something happens.

"If he wants to stay, let him stay. If he wants to go, let him go."

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.