Meireles is a centre midfielder for Portugal and was a centre midfielder for Porto before the Reds signed him so it was puzzling to see him pushed out right for Liverpool's last couple of games. Hodgson has explained the reasoning behind his decision.
"We don't play with wingers. The way he plays and the way Joe Cole plays, we think (playing wide midfield) is more than suited to their qualities," said the boss.
"We saw evidence of that in the game because they often got into situations where they received and turned with the ball - especially in the first half. I think we can get some use from Raul Meireles there with his passing ability."