Source: Daily_Mail
Gary McAllister happy to play back up as Gerard Houllier returns to health
The caretaker's job is not a glamorous one and, in football terms, often means a brief spell in charge before a slightly self-conscious shuffle back into anonymity.[LNB]In the case of Gary McAllister, a track suit - the sporting equivalent of brown overalls - remains the garment of choice but that is where the comparison ends.[LNB] Mac Daddy: Aston Villa assistant manager Gary McAllister stepped into Gerard Houllier's shoes this weekend[LNB]Aston Villa's immediate future has been placed in the care of someone who has experienced life at the sharp end. Having managed Leeds and Coventry, McAllister is more than content to be No 2 to Gerard Houllier. Yet, while Houllier remains in hospital due to a heart condition, McAllister is happy to become a stand-in No 1.[LNB]The temporary arrangement will last for the rest of the season, by which time the doctors will be able to tell Houllier whether returning to the job is an option.[LNB] Route one: Kenwyne Jones jumped highest to nod home Rory Delap's long throw[LNB]In the meantime, the club must pin their faith on the caretaker. Saturday's 1-1 draw against Stoke, will not sway a jury but McAllister is convinced he can do it.[LNB]'The fact is I'm a professional man. I know my job,' insisted McAllister. 'I'm fortunate that I've managed another big-city club at Leeds as well managing at Coventry City.[LNB] Head boy: Darren Bent nicked in ahead of Ryan Shawcross to draw Villa level[LNB]'I would not have chosen it this way. I'd rather be the No 2. But the big thing is that I trust Gerard and he trusts me.' Villa, after a season of turmoil, are virtually safe by dint of Darren Bent's equaliser against Stoke on Saturday.[LNB]Houllier, sitting in his hospital bed, is demanding every detail and McAllister is confident he will be seeing the Frenchman back at the helm.[LNB]'I know what he wants,' insisted McAllister. 'He spent a bit of time working in the French FA pushing a pen around a desk and what he loves and where he wants to be is on a training ground every day.' [LNB] [LNB] Explore more:People: Darren Bent, Gerard Houllier, Gary McAllister Places: Leeds
