Houllier: I'm staying

Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has insisted he will still be at the club next season.

The Frenchman’s position at Anfield has been the subject of fresh speculation in recent days despite the club’s fourth place finish in the Premiership.

Liverpool have refused to comment on reports that Houllier could find himself out of a job after a board meeting next week but the manager himself is already making plans for the next campaign.

Houllier said: “I am 100% sure I will be here next season. The directors of the club are aware that the team has qualified three times for the Champions League in the last six years.

“I can’t prevent or stop the rumours, but the speculation is a load of rubbish. I am currently having meetings with the chief executive [Rick Parry] preparing for next season.”