Hodgson was happy to see his young side leave Macedonia with a 2-0 first leg lead and was encouraged with the performance of the team.
"I am very satisfied. I think it is a game that could have been very difficult for us. The crowd were fantastic for them and supported them quite brilliantly throughout the game," said the boss.
"It was a big crowd and some of our players today are not used to playing in front of as many people as that.
"I am really pleased about the way everybody went about their business.
"I am very pleased we can go back to Anfield with a margin of victory that will enable us to be a little bit more comfortable there.
"You learn a lot about your team every time you play. I have worked with some of the players, and there are those that I haven't.
"Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger haven't done much training with me, so it was a very good exercise in that respect.
"I am just delighted that so many players who had pressure on them coming into the game - both senior and younger players looking to make their mark - were able to help us secure a positive outcome and can head back to Liverpool feeling good about themselves."
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