Torres has endured a difficult season, scoring only five goals in eighteen appearances but the boss believes the striker is only a goal or so away from a return to his best form.
"I just think Fernando is getting stronger, fitter and more confident. All he needs is a goal or two and then he'll explode," said Hodgson.
"I watch him in training every day and he works very hard, he's fully committed to everything, but he's a front player and they play on unbelievably tight margins.
"All he needs is a couple of goals or a couple of good performances and you will see the Fernando Torres of old."