Could Houllier be just what the doctor ordered for Villa - by John Gooch
So Gerard Houllier has finally been appointed manager at Aston Villa, can I be the first to suggest Villa’s best way of ensuring this is a successful appointment is to install England’s leading cardiologist as opposed to Stan Staunton, as his right-hand man.
Prior to his heart problems in October 2001 Houllier presided over a hugely successful period at Liverpool, winning five trophies including both the FA & UEFA Cup as well as signing clubs legends Hyypia, Hamman & Henchoz, over-seeing a major overhaul of their Melwood training facilities and playing a key role in the development of Anfield super-duo Jamie Carragher & Steven Gerrard.
Following his health problems Houllier never looked the same man, and a solitary League Cup and second-place in the Premiership was all he had to show for this period by the time he bowed out of Anfield in 2004. In this period he signed El Hadji Diouf & Salif Diou as well as his swan song - the £14m signing of Djibril Cisse, surely the footballing equivalent of farting immediately prior to leaving a packed lift.
Following an extended break from the game Houllier looks fit, healthy and full of life, keep him that way and it could be a very happy season indeed for Aston Villa.
