Villa boss Houllier facing ‘several days’ in hospital

ASTON VILLA manager Gerard Houllier was yesterday being treated in hospital after he fell ill on Wednesday evening.

Premier League managers quickly sent ‘get well’ messages to the Frenchman, whose condition is described as comfortable.

The 63-year-old underwent open heart surgery when Liverpool boss in October 2001 after feeling unwell during a match with Leeds and did not return to full-time management for five months.

The exact nature of his current illness has not been revealed, but he will undergo tests and remain in hospital for a number of days.

Assistant manager Gary McAllister will take charge of Villa’s home clash with Stoke at the weekend.

A Villa statement yesterday read: “The club can confirm Gerard Houllier was admitted to hospital last night.

“He is in a comfortable condition and he wishes to convey his appreciation to Aston Villa supporters for their concern and good wishes.

“The manager spoke to chief executive Paul Faulkner this morning and he is currently undergoing tests.

“It is anticipated that he will remain in hospital for several days.

“Gary McAllister has taken training this morning and he will be in charge of the team for the game against Stoke on Saturday at Villa Park.

“The club’s thoughts at this time are with Gerard and his family.”

Houllier has endured a demanding first season after replacing Martin O’Neill in September.

He has come under fire from some Villa fans on a couple of occasions and sections of them have called for him to be sacked.

But results have improved in recent weeks with Villa climbing into the top half of the Barclays Premier League after taking seven points from the last three games.

Faulkner said: “On behalf of the football club, Randy Lerner (the club owner) and I wish to convey our best wishes to Gerard.

“I spoke with him this morning, as did Gary (McAllister) before he took training, and he sounded very positive.

“I’ve also received a lot of good wishes from fans and I would like to thank them for their kind thoughts in wishing Gerard a speedy recovery.”

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini said: “It is not easy because, when you are under pressure, you can have some problems.

“But I hope Gerard comes out of the hospital very quickly because he is a big person, a big manager.”

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish added: “Of course our thoughts are with him. We wish him well and I’m sure he is in the best possible hands.

“Doc (Mark) Waller is there, who was the club doctor here when Gerard fell ill in 2001, so he’s got a good guy beside him and I’m sure the people there will do everything they can to help.”