Sven-Goran Eriksson could be the man leading out Fulham for their Premier League opener against Bolton at the Reebok Stadium (Bolton 6/5, Fulham 9/5, draw 9/4 – 90 Minutes) on August 14 if Roy Hodgson departs for Liverpool.

The former England and Manchester City boss has been mooted as the man to takeover at Craven Cottage as his future with the Ivory Coast national team is in doubt after he failed to guide them beyond the group stage at the World Cup in South Africa.

However, the Swede’s return to English football will hinge on current Fulham boss Hodgson’s future given that he remains hot favourite at 4/7 to be Next Permanent Liverpool Manager.

The Merseyside giants are thought to be close to agreeing a compensation package with the Cottagers for Hodgson’s services. But it is being reported that he wants some guarantees about the club’s financial future and his possible transfer funds before he agrees to replace the outgoing Rafael Benitez.

Another potential obstacle to a deal going through to take Hodgson to Anfield is the prospect of the England manager’s position becoming vacant in the very near future.

Current Three Lions coach Fabio Capello insisted that he has no plans to resign following the side’s humiliating World Cup last-16 exit at the hands of Germany on Sunday afternoon in Bloemfontein.

However, the Italian will speak with FA chairman Sir Dave Richards on his return and could be relieved of his duties if the decision-makers feel he is no longer capable of bringing success to the national team.

It is thought that Hodgson will be amongst the frontrunners to replace Capello if he does depart as England boss and they will look for a quick appointment as the bid to qualify for Euro 2012 (England 2/7 group G Winner) starts this autumn.

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