Houllier praises Villa's ambition

Houllier is returning to English football after a six-year absence

Gerard Houllier says Aston Villa's ambition was key to him agreeing to succeed Martin O'Neill as manager.

Houllier, 63, said he had rejected other offers, adding he was fit and healthy after heart problems in 2001 during his reign at Liverpool.

"I had a good and safe job at the French Football Federation, but Villa's ambition made me feel I wanted to be part of the team," he stated.

Caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald will return to his job as reserve team boss.

However, Houllier added that he was disappointed that MacDonald, who took over the reins following O'Neill's shock departure in August, had rejected the chance to work as his assistant.

"I am working on naming an assistant manager," the Frenchman continued.

"Joint management doesn't work, but in some capacity as assistant manager he would have been helpful. he could also have maybe learnt the trade and, who knows, taken over from me.

"But I understand his decision, he's a nice bloke so I won't hurt him - I told him I'd like him to stay at the club."

Under MacDonald, Villa won two of their opening three Premier League fixtures, a foundation on which Houllier is keen to build.

"I'm here to meet anyone who says it's not a good club, so lets try to make it better," enthused Houllier.

"The facilities are first class, the training ground is really good, there is a vision for the future.

"It's down now to us to work hard to bring success and joy to the fans. The fans are most important, they are passionate, vocal and fantastic."

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