Hodgson defends his game by not playing Torres (VIDEO) © EuroFootball.com

Strategist Roy Hodgson defends the unimpressive player Fernando Torres and asks fans for patience.

On Thursday, the Europa League match against "Utrecht" ended goalless away, and Torres missed a great opportunity to score in the second half.

"We know that Fernando can do more, and we hope for that, both us and he himself," the coach stated. "But this is just the beginning of the season. Torres works hard on the field, he just can't score."

The hosts dominated in the Netherlands, and goalkeeper Pepe Reina saved the visitors several times, once kicking a ball flying towards goal from the line is defender Raul Meireles.

But Hodgson was satisfied: "A point is good. We expected tough matches, and that's what it was. The opponents played well, were very confident, so it's great to bring a draw back to Liverpool."

Scenes from the match: