Is the EPL ready for the return of Gerard Houllier? Is Aston Villa ready?

By: Sarah | September 4th, 2010

gerard_houllier

Though no official announcement has been made, the English media has been buzzing for the past 48 hours (or maybe 72) about the possible return of Gerrard Houllier to the EPL. Houllier, who was touted as a possible successor to Martin O’Neil at Aston Villa, is rumored to be part of a three-person team Aston Villa is recruiting to oversee and replace O’Neil and his team. It is unclear if the Frenchman is being considered for an outright manager’s job or a director of football role. When he arrived at Jamie Carragher’s testimonial game, Houllier would not comment on speculation, only telling journalists…

“Never and always are two words you can’t use in football.”

Aston Vilas owner, Randy Lerner, is looking to replace Martin O’Neil who resigned a few days before the EPL season began this year with a candidate with previous success in the league. Houllier, who won the FA Cup, UEFA Cup and League Cup with Liverpool in 2001, may fit the bill. Houllier followed up his time in England with two successful title-winning seasons with Lyon before making his way to the French Football Federation where he is the National Technical Director. In his role with the FFF, he oversees the youth development of French football.

If you’ve seen some of my previous posts about Houllier, you will know I’m not much of a fan of his emotional and immature outbursts which I frequently find embarrassing and tasteless. But, I’m curious as to how Aston Villa fans are reacting to this news…or rumors. Will you be breaking out the champagne pictures to toast his arrival?