Source: Daily_Mail
Gerard Houllier backs Alex McLeish to be a success at Aston Villa
ShareGerard Houllier has urged Aston Villa fans to give his successor Alex McLeish the chance to prove he is the right man for the managerial job.[LNB] Former Birmingham boss McLeish has upset some sections of Villa supporters by making the move across the city to replace Houllier.[LNB] Show your support: Houllier has urged Villa fans to get behind new boss McLeish[LNB] But Houllier, who was forced to quit because of health reasons three weeks ago, believes McLeish should be given the opportunity to show his credentials.[LNB] He said: 'I think Gabby Agbonlahor (Villa striker) said some comments about giving him (McLeish) a chance - and I agree.[LNB] 'He's football through and through and I think he's a good signing for the club.[LNB] Feeling Blue: Villa fans were furious when the club approached former Birmingham boss McLeish[LNB] 'I've known him a long time and he's a nice person and a straightforward guy.[LNB] 'I think Alex is strong enough. He's got the personnel to win football matches.'[LNB] McLeish will give a fresh chance toplayers such as Stephen Ireland, Stephen Warnock and Habib Beye, who had little opportunity to play under Houllier. [LNB] Short reign: Houllier was forced to quit because of health reasons[LNB] He said: 'There will be a clean slate for not only the young players but also the players already here.[LNB]'That includes those who perhaps were probably in the doldrums, those not playing at their best.[LNB] 'Maybe we can give them a spark by coming in. It's a clean slate for everybody.'[LNB] [LNB] Forget it, Eck! Ex-Rangers boss McLeish warned off Villa move for Ibrox starsI'm not scared: Alex McLeish brushes aside threats and hints at raid for Birmingham starsThe Midlander: Savvy McLeish has pulled a masterstroke joining VillaAll the latest Aston Villa news, features and opinion[LNB] [LNB] Explore more:People: Gerard Houllier, Alex McLeish Places: Birmingham
