Downing: Houllier position won't change my mind

Stewart Downing insists his decision whether to remain at Aston Villa this summer will not be influenced by manager Gerard Houllier’s future.

Villa are expected to make a formal announcement on Houllier today or tomorrow after he underwent medical tests before the weekend.

There are reports that the 63-year-old will part company with Villa because of concerns over his health after his recent heart problems.

Downing, who is being linked with a move to Liverpool, said: “Obviously we’re reading the reports that Gerard Houllier has gone – but we’ve not heard anything.

“We got told at the end of the season that he was fit and well and he would be coming back to Villa.

“I had no problems with him. He came in at a tough time. He did quite well with the team. I’ve enjoyed working with him.”

Downing, currently preparing for England’s Euro 2012 qualifier with Switzerland on Saturday, is declining to sign a new contract.

He said: “If his (Houllier’s) position changes, then I wish him all the best but that doesn’t affect my position.

“It would stay (the same) even if Gerard stayed or if he went.”

Downing’s Villa and England team-mate, Ashley Young, said: “I’ve not heard anything from the club officially.

“I’m away with England and that is what I’m concentrating on.

“The manager has done great since he has come in. It has been a difficult season for us but hopefully things can get sorted and he comes back to full health.”

Fulham boss Mark Hughes, ex-England coach Steve McClaren, former Tottenham manager Martin Jol and Everton chief David Moyes are possible successors if and when Houllier’s reign is at an end.

Hughes has yet to sign a new two-year contract at Fulham and is believed to have a one-month break clause in his current deal.

Downing said: “I’m sure Randy Lerner (club owner) and Paul Faulkner (chief executive) will get the right man if there is a change.

“I’m sure they will come out with the best outcome for the club.”

Houllier, who underwent heart surgery when Liverpool manager a decade ago, was forced to miss the final month of last season while recuperating from his latest setback.

Caretaker boss Gary McAllister has been adamant Houllier would return to his post and the 63-year-old has played his part in drawing up Villa’s plans for next season.

But it is understood Villa officials are concerned whether it would be fair to Houllier or the club to risk any further health setbacks via a return to the dug-out.

Houllier has struggled to win over the Villa fans despite a second half of the season revival which saw the club finish ninth in the Barclays Premier League.