Yesterday netted the only goal of the game yesterday with a sweet volley from Dirk Kuty’s cross.

It secured a first league win under Hodgson but Liverpool were far from convincing.

“It was hard fought and especially in the first half we weren’t firing on all cylinders,”Hodgson added.

“They played well and caused us some problems but we got better as the game went on.

“We had a much better second half and of course got the points thanks to a world class strike. It was a very good three points for us against a good team.

“Fernando is trying very hard at the moment. He is playing catch-up because he started his pre-season with us late but that goal will be great for his confidence.”

Hodgson was relieved that West Brom’s James Morrison, who was dismissed late on for a dangerous challenge on Torres, didn’t inflict serious injury on the Spaniard.

He said: “It was a nasty kick but I think the shin pad saved him from a lot of damage.

“I was a long way from the incident but it looked like a wild challenge to me.

“The referee thought it was a red card and that’s good enough for me.”