Debutant Christian Poulsen also had a goal disallowed as Liverpool dominated the second half after a drab opening 45 minutes.

Yet with the hosts unable to kill off the tie, Trabzonspor gave warning of their threat as Umut Bulut forced a fine save from Jose Reina.

But that should have given Reina confidence after the error that gifted Arsenal their equaliser last time out. “He is world class,” said Cole. “That is what he is there for, to make world-class saves at crucial times.”

Hodgson agreed that Reina’s save could have been a crucial moment in the tie.

Hodgson said: “We thought it was offside but it wasn’t signalled and was a clear goal chance.

“It was probably the one clear chance they had in the game and Pepe produced an outstanding save.

“It is nice to know that he has been able to put Sunday’s mistake behind him quickly and once again produce an important save.

“We can thank him for that and we still have a clean sheet to take to Trabzonspor.”

Hodgson stood by his decision to make seven changes from the side which faced the Gunners.

“I think it was important to rest them,” said the former Fulham boss.

“All of them played for international teams last Wednesday, then they had to play Arsenal in a very intensive game.

“With another important game last night and another on Monday, I think it was important we rotated the players.

“Fortunately the players I chose did not let the club down and did a good job.

“Whether the margin of victory will be enough, only next Thursday will tell.”