The reason Roy Hodgson failed at Liverpool was similar to David Moyes downfall at Manchester United - while both managers were excellent at transforming perennial mid-table fodder, they failed to adapt their mindset when presented with a larger scale. When Hodgson arrived at Anfield, instead of scouring Europe for world-class talent, he continued to sign players that would have looked more comfortable at Craven Cottage, such as Paul Konchesky, Christian Poulsen and Brad Jones. Carlton Cole was another mediocre target, having scored 31 goals in 122 outings for the Hammers. It was certainly not a prolific record, but it was enough to convince Hodgson of his qualities in August 2010, as he launched a deadline day swoop for his signature. With the club having been too reliant on the fitness of talismanic hitman Fernando Torres for the previous seasons, the club needed striking reinforcements, and decided to wrestle the seven-cap wonder from West Hams grip with a flurry of late bids. Cole would go on to enjoy another horrific season in front of goal, averaging a strike every seven league games, as West Ham sank into the Championship. The Hammers board are probably still despairing at not cashing in when Liverpool foolishly offered £20 million for the profligate centre-forward, considering they have since tried, and failed, to get rid of him on a free transfer.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
