Watch Liverpool

• Hodgson wants to make Londoner his first signing
• Lure of first-team football may be crucial factor

Liverpool hope Joe Cole will resist the lure of remaining in London and agree to become Roy Hodgson’s first signing as their manager on a deal worth £90,000-a-week.

The England international has held talks with Anfield officials and Tottenham Hotspur over a lucrative free transfer following his release by Chelsea. Although the early indication was that the 28-year-old wanted to stay in the capital Liverpool, who are unable to offer Cole Champions League football, believe their terms and the prospect of regular first-team football may yet entice the midfielder to Merseyside.

Hodgson, who would prefer an answer from Cole this week as he prepares a makeshift squad for Liverpool’s Europa League third-round qualifier on 29