Roy Hodgson has revealed that Liverpool have rallied around Joe Cole as he continues to struggle this season.

The former Chelsea player signed for the Reds this summer on a free transfer but has failed to make an impact of the club after being dogged by injuries.

However he is expected to return for Liverpool tonight as the club face Steaua Bucharest in the Europa League.

The Liverpool manager admitted that Cole has been frustrated with the way things have gone so far this season but Hodgson believes that he will show everyone what he is capable of.

Speaking to Sky Sports Hodgson said: "He isn't a naturally confident character. He suffers when things are not going his way," said Hodgson.

"Everyone at the club has worked hard to make sure he doesn't take it too hard and take too much on himself, because he's quite happy to take responsibility."

Hodgson added: "I am always wary of answering about people's mental state. It's difficult enough to judge them physically. But one thing is certain is that Joe's desperate to show what he can do.

"Because of where he plays, he is one who plays with small margin and then of course the risk of failure is even greater. For some they can get success just by booting the ball away, but Joe can't do it in the position he plays in.

"I don't know how frustrated he's been. He would obviously have liked to hit the ground running but it's not been possible, largely because of injuries.

"But he has a long time with us, a long contract and we know what he's capable of doing. The sooner he produces it of course the better for me, but there is no pressure on him in that respect. He is a quality player who will come good."

But Liverpool will be without Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher, who are both injured, while Hodgson is resting Dirk Kuyt, Raul Meireles and Fernando Torres.

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw


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