Although it would be interesting to see Hodgson use a 4-4-2 with inverted wingers like he did with Fulham, 4-2-3-1 probably still suits best. I think giving Cole and Gerrard license to switch back and forth between the hole and left flank could get the best out of both of them. Kuyt would be the obvious first choice on the right wing, but he might leave for Inter.
I wonder if Hodgson will stick with Rafa's game plan. Rafa was a bit too defensive, maybe Hodgson will take a more balanced style. I'll not be too surprised if he switches to a more classical 4-4-2
I'd like to see Hodgson use a more fluid 4-2-3-1 (letting Cole/Gerrard swap roles, giving Aquilani more freedom to get forward, etc.). Rafa's 4-2-3-1 was pretty rigid. But I don't think 4-4-2 will necessarily be more attacking. Hodgson used a very defensive 4-4-2 in Fulham's Europa league matches.
I didn't mean the 4-4-2 Fulham played in UEFA cup last season. Indeed, it was very defensive and that's OK at international tournements.
What I had in mind was a good old 4-4-2 where there's a balance between attack and defense.
Liverpool are mediocre no matter how you paint it. Their ace players(which are not that many) are infested with injuries and can't pull a whole season. They have no money to sign better players. I don't see any talent coming from their academy either.
If somone buys them now, and inject the cash, they might have a chance to fight for 4th spot.
It seems Chinese put a firm offer to buy Liverpool. If it happens, the last days of the transfer window will be very interesting.