Houllier checks in

18 September 2010 20:00
New Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier introduced himself to the players for the first time following Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bolton. Departing caretaker-manager Kevin MacDonald confirmed Houllier held a brief chat with the squad in the dressing room before watching the match from the directors' box along with assistant Gary McAllister - who was announced in his role before the match. The Frenchman will officially take up his post on Monday, with just 48 hours to prepare for his first game in charge, a Carling Cup tie at home to Blackburn. Houllier inherits a talented squad, but one which has been hit and miss this season following a mixed bag of results under MacDonald - three wins, three defeats and a draw. "Mr Houllier went down to see the players, to introduce himself and some of his team, and I'll be seeing him tomorrow morning to have a chat about things," said MacDonald. "With Mr Houllier having watched Monday's game (a 2-1 defeat at Stoke) and today's match he knows there is something to work with. "His backroom staff looks good, and with the players we've got, let's hope we push on further and further."

Source: PA