Gerrard Houllier has just completed his scheduled press conference at Villa Park – well, so far as Sky Sports’ questions go – and said all the right things. He showed deference to our history and pedigree, while talking about his pride and passion in taking this job.

He briefly outlined his ambitions, which included Europe and silverware, while making it clear he intends to build on our existing squad and facilities, not attempt to start afresh with his own version of Aston Villa. Exactly what I wanted to hear.

He also confirmed that he will not be able to take charge for the Stoke game on Monday night as he has previously scheduled commitments with the French national team job, but he will definitely attend the Bolton game, although he wasn’t able to say whether he would be in charge in time for that match.

Asked about Kevin MacDonald’s future, he explained that he “prefers to return to his position as reserve team manager”. I’m not surprised to be honest. Pressed to name who his assistant manager will be, Houllier explained that his “feet were not yet under the table” and he’ll need time to assemble his team.

Overall, it was an excellent press conference, he’s a witty, charming and an exceptionally intelligent man. He mentioned his intention to end Liverpool’s unbeaten run at Villa Park with a cheeky glint in his eye and dismissed the tabloid nonsense about potential problems with players such as Friedel and Warnock with good humour.

The more time I’ve had to get used to the idea, the more I’ve warmed to Houllier and having had the chance to watch this press conference almost in its entirety, I’m prepared to say that I really like the man and am excited once again about the future.

I was in the middle of writing something about how the Daily Mail had twisted something he had said in France when this started, I think this over rides any requirement to address that. Sufficed to say, when the Mail tell you something, it’s probably a distortion of the truth.

UTV

Video From Birmingham Mail