The Liverpool manager has targeted the Australia international as backup to Pepe Reina, casting doubt over the long-term Anfield future of Diego Cavalieri.

But having seen his initial offer turned down, Hodgson – who remains hopeful of sealing a £6m deal for Juventus midfielder Christian Poulsen – said: “I don’t know at this stage if we will go back to Boro over Jones, we have to assess the situation.”

Liverpool’s victory last night ensured a 4-0 aggregate success against Macedonian minnows Rabotnicki and puts their name in the hat for the Europa League qualifying play-off draw this lunchtime.

David Ngog, who scored both first-leg goals in Skopje last week, sent the Anfield outfit on their way with a 21st-minute header and won the penalty from which Steven Gerrard scored the second five minutes before the break.

“Ngog was responsible for both goals,” said Hodgson. “The important thing is he’s up there to be involved and was unlucky not to add to his tally.

“He provided the focal point for attacks that people like Joe Cole and Gerrard behind him need.”

Cole was impressive on his competitive debut since signing on a free transfer having been released from Chelsea.

And Hodgson said: “Joe is a very enthusiastic, effervescent player. The more he plays the happier he is. He wants to play every minute of every game. Whether that’s possible I don’t know but it’s a great attitude to have. He had a really good home debut.

“It’s great that Joe, on his debut in front of a big crowd, showed he will give them a lot of joy this season. He can play a lot of positions and it depends where we need him most and where he will fit in best with the others.”

Of his own Anfield bow, Hodgson added: “It was a special moment for me, a nice occasion and I am as happy as the players and hopefully the fans will be.

“I am perfectly satisfied, I thought they were both good games. Today there was some very attractive football and lots of chances.

“We could have had more but one more than the opposition’s always enough.”