Able to play, and play exceedingly well, as an inside-left or left-winger, Dennis Hodgetts, tall and weighty, was difficult to dispossess and was rarely barged off the ball. With his waxed moustache and his hair neatly parted, he was certainly a star performer, being a sagacious passer, quick-witted and altogether an uncommonly-fine forward who gave Aston Villa wonderful service for over a decade. Strong and decisive in his approach to the game, he was full of clever and inventive ideas, always coming up with something different when least expected, certainly to opposing defenders! He could use both feet but preferred his left and at times, when in full flight, he was unstoppable, and besides creating chances aplenty for his colleagues he scored some memorable goals himself.

The Merseysiders hardly had time to settle before they fell behind to a smart Hodgetts goal on four minutes. The Villa man was a master with the ball at his feet, using the outside of his right foot to race away from defenders, and he showed good pace before hitting a powerful shot for his first League goal.

A born football player. Remarkably clever with his feet, and possessed many original ideas. Effective in combination, an admirable coach, his skill and unselfishness having the happiest results. Shone especially in 'nursing' players lighter and less skilful than himself, many juniors coming into prominence on the strength of his tuition and example.