Source: Daily_Mail
Gary McAllister laughs off reports of dressing room mutiny at Aston Villa
Aston Villa assistant manager Gary McAllister insists there is no sense of 'mutiny' at the club. [LNB]Defenders Richard Dunne and James Collins were recently involved in a bust-up with coaching staff at a team bonding session, and were understood to have each been fined two weeks' wages. [LNB] Stand by me: McAllister (right) has backed under-fire Villa manager Houllier [LNB]Goalkeeper Brad Friedel and other members of the squad were then reported to be unhappy with rules enforced by manager Gerard Houllier, including the banning of mobile phones in the dressing room. [LNB]However Friedel was swift to describe talk of a revolt as 'laughable', and McAllister stresses there is no cause for concern. [LNB]'I don't think there's any mutiny here,' the former Liverpool and Leeds midfielder told BBC Sport. [LNB]'There's been little arguments here and there but nothing outside the realms of what happens at most clubs.'[LNB] Mutiny: Friedel was said to be among the players unhappy with Villa boss Houllier [LNB] Villa's precarious position towards the foot of the Barclays Premier League may have heightened concerns over off-field issues, with the team just one point outside the relegation zone heading into the final eight games of the season. [LNB]McAllister is confident Villa can climb away from danger, saying: 'I've seen some of the players talking about pride, playing for the fans, playing for the jersey - they know we're in a bit of trouble and we need to produce. [LNB]'I agree some players in other teams are a little bit more hardened. But I don't think it's going to be a problem because players' pride and quality will lift them above it.'[LNB]The Scot also defended Houllier, who many Villa fans called on the board to sack after the recent home defeat to Wolves. [LNB]'Gerard Houllier is a proven manager - I'm working under somebody who's had to make big decisions, won things,' said McAllister. [LNB] Bosnia striker Ibisevic wanted by Midlands duo Villa and West BromFriedel denies claims of Aston Villa player revolt over boss HoullierEngland stars can rescue Aston Villa from relegation scrap, insists BentAston Villa FC news, features and opinion [LNB]
