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Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has urged concerned fans to be patient with under-pressure manager Roy Hodgson.

Following a disastrous start to the season, the former Fulham manager finds himself in the spotlight just three months into his Anfield reign.

The Reds are languishing down in 19th place in the Premier League table after winning just one of their first eight matches and losing to both rivals Manchester United and Everton.

They were also dumped out of the Carling Cup by League Two opposition last month in a further blow.

But despite Hodgson funding himself under pressure, long-serving defender Carragher has stressed the need for patience.

Speaking ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash with Napoli in Italy, he said:"It is very early days in the season and there is a lot of time to go.

"It hasn't always been rosy playing for Liverpool. Last season wasn't great and I remember going 12 games without a win under Gerard Houllier, so it has not always been plain sailing.

"It is a little rocky patch we are going through at the moment but as long as the players, manager and supporters all stick together it won't be a problem.

"The spirit in the dressing room is fine but you don't have to be a rocket scientist to work out if you win games it is a lot better.

"The manager is the boss and we should be trying to impress him, not the other way around."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email