Source: Team_Talk
Thompson turns down Villa role
Former Liverpool assistant Phil Thompson has turned down the chance to become a member of Gerard Houllier's backroom staff at Aston Villa.[LNB] Anfield legend Thompson was Houllier's number two during his six-year stint as Reds' boss and the Frenchman was keen on rekindling the partnership in his new role as Martin O'Neill's successor at Villa Park.[LNB]But Thompson has decided to reject the "flattering" offer and will remain in his role as a Sky Sports pundit.[LNB]"Had circumstances been different, I would have been delighted to accept the chance to work with Gerard Houllier once again at Aston Villa," he said.[LNB]"But I had to weigh up the pros and cons and while it was hugely flattering and enticing to be asked, I had no choice but to turn the offer down.[LNB]"With Gerard, you are signing up to 12-hour days, you have to be totally committed.[LNB]"I would throw myself at such a challenge but at the same time I do not want to uproot my wife and two boys and I'm not someone who could live away from them through the week."[LNB]Houllier, 63, has been out of work since leaving Lyon in 2007 and returns to English football six years after his Anfield exit.[LNB]He will be unveiled to the media on Friday and will take charge of his first game on Monday against Stoke.
