• Premier League

Houllier taken to hospital

ESPNsoccernet staff
April 21, 2011
Gerard Houllier was taken to hospital after falling ill © Getty Images
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Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier was detained in hospital on Wednesday night after being taken ill.

The nature of the problem remains unclear but Houllier is understood to be "comfortable". He is due to spend several days in hospital and assistant Gary McAllister appears likely to take charge of Saturday's game against Stoke.

Villa are yet to comment on the situation but are expected to make an official statement later on Thursday.

Houllier was taken to hospital in October 2001 during his time in charge of Liverpool and had to undergo emergency heart surgery. He was absent for five months before returning to manage the club.

He has come under fire from the Villa fans this season, although the 2-1 win over West Ham at the weekend has lifted the club into the top half of the table.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis admitted high stress levels were part of the job and offered his sympathy to his fellow manager.

"I think everybody in football would wish Gerard a speedy recovery. First and foremost we hope he's well and I am sure they will be looking after him," Pulis said.

"It's part of the job, you get used to it," he said of the stress involved in management. "I bumped into Gerard on Sunday and he looked really well. Obviously they had just won at West Ham so you do look well after a victory.

"He looked as bright as a button and it surprised me when someone told me [Houllier is in hospital]."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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