Gerard Houllier refuses to be drawn on Aston Villa job

Sep 5 2010 by Adam Aspinall, Sunday Mercury

Gerard Houllier

GERARD Houllier warmed up for his arrival at Aston Villa by watching a Premier League friendly yesterday.

But the former Liverpool manager remained tight-lipped about his future and refused to be drawn on speculation that he is being lined up for a role at Villa Park.

Houllier would neither confirm nor deny the rumours about his future, saying enigmatically: “Never and always are two words you can’t use in football.”

He made the cryptic comment – a remark worthy of fellow Frenchman Eric Cantona – as he arrived at Anfield to watch Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher’s testimonal match.

As reported on our back page today, Sunday Mercury Villa writer Mat Kendrick understands that Houllier will be unveiled as Martin O’Neill’s full-time successor within the next 48 hours.

The 63 year-old Frenchman is likely to be employed as a traditional manager rather than a director of football.