Agger outburst over tactics rocks Hodgson's Anfield reign

London: Roy Hodgson's Anfield reign has been rocked by the first sign of player unrest after Daniel Agger openly questioned his methods.

In a direct challenge to Hodgson's authority, Agger expressed his opposition to Liverpool's style of play under their new manager and claimed he was ready to rebel against it.

The Denmark centre half said Liverpool's back four were now under orders to launch long balls, and he made it clear he was prepared to risk the wrath of Hodgson rather than compromise his beliefs.

Speaking on Danish television, Agger said: "The manager has a philosophy that we're playing football further up the pitch, and that means having to play a different kind of football at the back.

"That's not my style. That's not the type of football player I am. I like to keep the ball on the ground, and I'm going to keep doing that. Whether he'll use me or not, time will tell.

"I guess I will try to change, even though I'm not going to be the player who unloads the ball every time I get it.

"I'll fight for my chance. I'll get the chance. I know what I represent and I think he [Hodgson] also knows that.

"The manager makes the decisions. You have to adjust. That's the way it is and our play has changed, so I'll have to adjust a bit. But to be honest, I'm not going to adjust 100 per cent."

Starting place

Agger lost his starting place to Martin Skrtel at Old Trafford on Sunday and now awaits Hodgson's response to the cracks appearing in his new regime.

The former Fulham boss has already come under fire for his side's listless performance at Birmingham and their lowly League position, and he will be eager to quell talk of discontent.

There was another blow for the club as the attempt by co-owner Tom Hicks to gain investment from American equity company Blackstone failed.

Hicks had been negotiating with Blackstone over a £280-million (Dh1.53 billion) package that would give them a share of control at Anfield and allow him to meet the October 11 deadline for repaying a £237 million loan to the Royal Bank of Scotland. But it is understood Blackstone will not be pursuing the deal.

It is a major setback for Hicks, but does not necessarily spell the end of his unpopular reign.

Fixtures

Playing Wednesday (all times GMT):

Aston Villa v Blackburn Rovers (6.45pm). Chelsea v Newcastle United (6.45pm). Scunthorpe United (II) v Manchester United (6.45pm). Wigan Athletic v Preston North End (II) (6.45pm). Liverpool v Northampton Town (IV) (7pm).

West Bromwich Albion v Manchester City (7pm).