Hodgson cast further uncertainty over the Argentina captain's Anfield career on Friday when he conceded he had been unable to contact him since he took charge more than a fortnight ago.
Mascherano, 26, has been linked with a move to European champions Inter Milan this summer, and Hodgson said: "I have tried to contact Javier. I have left him voice messages and sent him texts but had no reply."
He added: "To be fair to him, that's not unusual because he's had a tough World Cup and I believe he's gone back to Argentina.
"It's not always easy to get in touch with people. I have tried to reach him to make clear I am happy to talk with him at his convenience."
Mascherano is contracted to Liverpool until 2012 and any deal could cost a club such as Inter as much as £30million.
Hodgson has at least managed to meet inspirational striker Fernando Torres following his return from the World Cup.Torres has been touted as a potential target for the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona for fees upwards of £50million.
Hodgson has made clear his determination to keep the 26-year-old, who is hoping to shake off a groin injury in time for the new season.
"As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player," Hodgson said. "He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him."
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