Source: Daily_Mail
Gerard Houllier finally apologises for Anfield gaffe
Feeling the heat: Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier[LNB] Gerard Houllier has finally apologised to Aston Villa fans for his ill-advised Anfield antics - but then conceded he did not know why he was saying sorry.[LNB] Houllier angered the club's core support by paying an emotional tribute to Liverpool before and after his return to Merseyside last Monday, a trip that ended in a feeble 3-0 defeat for his side.[LNB] By touching the 'This is Anfield' sign beforehand and saying that if his team had to lose, then he was glad it was against Liverpool, the Frenchman only added to the fury of fans who had just witnessed an abject Villa side slipping to a fourth straight defeat.[LNB] Houllier was then rounded upon by one of his own directors. General Charles Krulak, one of Villa owner Randy Lerner's righthand men, said that he could understand those supporters who wanted the manager kicked out of Villa Park.[LNB] But Houllier said: 'It has been totally misinterpreted', before apologising to Villa fans four times.[LNB]'If the fans think my intention was to hurt them, I'm sorry. This wasnot the case. I have been stung by the supporters' reaction. I'm sorry.I'm surprised that touching the Anfield sign was a huge offence. I'vedone it for six years because it was under the tunnel where I was sickand it meant something.[LNB] Tough times: Stewart Downing holds off Glen Johnson in the 3-0 defeat at Anfield[LNB] 'But I am not going to forget the experience I had with Liverpool and Lyon and I want to have the same here at Villa. If it hurts, then I am sorry.[LNB] 'If you want me to apologise, I apologise. Even if I don't feel I have done something wrong in terms of intentions.'[LNB] Krulak's comments certainly did little to inspire a feeling of harmony inside Villa Park.[LNB] Tribute: Liverpool fans hold up a banner as a tribute to their former manager during the Villa win[LNB] With the club two points above the relegation zone and facingMidlands rivals West Bromwich at home today, Houllier said: 'I wassurprised at the comments but I'm not going to blame General Krulak.[LNB] 'He has the right to an opinion and to express it, even if at thetime it does not help me. 'I have got enough on my plate to botherabout that.' [LNB] Under-fire boss Houllier wins vote of confidence from Aston Villa chiefs The Midlander: Gerard Houllier is left fighting a losing battle after his own goal at AnfieldMore woe for under-fire Villa boss Houllier after Collins' late partyingASTON VILLA FC
