Fulham are determined to resist any approach from Liverpool for manager Roy Hodgson.

The Times says the West London club claim that no formal approach has been made to speak to Hodgson, who has turned around the fortunes of the club in his 2½ years in charge.

Liverpool have been encouraged to believe that Hodgson, who is on holiday in Wales, would listen to an offer if they are given permission to speak. At 62, Hodgson would see it as a last chance to manage a big club, having twice coached Inter Milan. His wife hails from the North West and he enjoyed his time as Blackburn Rovers manager 13 years ago.

Hodgson signed a 12-month rolling contract last year and its terms allow Fulham compensation of about £2.5 million. He led Fulham to the Europa League final last season, two years after saving them from relegation.

Fulham believe that Liverpool may turn to Mark Hughes because he is out of work and there would be no compensation, but the appointment of a former Manchester United player would not be welcomed by fans. Also in Hodgson's favour is that he has a close relationship with Kenny Dalglish, who is leading the search for Benítez's successor alongside Christian Purslow, the Liverpool managing director.