Cautious Houllier leaves locals cold and Villa limping

GERARD HOULLIER’S arrival at Villa Park generated a wave of antipathy among Aston Villa devotees, who were concerned about his perceived negative tactics.

So far the French manager is living up to their low expectations. The vast majority of claret and blue wearers streamed out of Villa Park muttering in frustration, bordering on disgust, at the insipid end to the domination they had previously enjoyed over their fierce rivals.

Houllier may well have extended an incredible derby record as a manager to 14 games without defeat, but he will take little pleasure from losing a 100 per cent record against their sworn enemies.