"He's fantastic, he's strong, reliable and he gives us something that we've not had before in that he is very good on crosses and deep balls played into the penalty area," Hodgson told the club's official website.
"He made a very good save against Newcastle to keep us in the game when we were leading 2-1.
"The authority that he brings with his experience is very important for the back four.
"We got Mark because we have Mike Kelly. Most of the goalkeepers who have worked with him believe he is the best goalkeeping coach in the country.
"Mark Schwarzer and several other goalkeepers who have been in touch with us are always quite anxious to come and work with Mike because they think that he'll bring the best out of them.
"So when Schwarzer became available, and had several opportunities, us being able to persuade him that if he comes to us he'll work with Mike again was a crucial factor."