BREAKING NEWS: Gerard Houllier steps down as manager of Aston Villa

The Frenchman took charge at Villa Park in September last year after the departure of Martin O’Neill, but was forced to miss the club’s final five league fixtures due to ill health.

The 63-year-old suffered from heart problems while in charge of Liverpool and following this latest health scare, the club have announced his departure by mutual consent.

"I would like to thank Gerard for his considerable efforts over the past nine months and for the dedication, commitment and work ethic he has demonstrated as Villa manager," chief executive Paul Faulkner said in a statement on the clubs official website.

"We regret the circumstances of Gerard's departure and, naturally, we wish him well in his continued recovery.

"I know I speak for everyone associated with Aston Villa in expressing our hope that Gerard will return to full health as quickly as possible and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Faulkner also revealed that the club is already actively pursuing a new manager in a bid to ensure it is fully prepared for next season.

"As a Board we are very conscious of the need to ensure that the Club is prepared fully to meet the demands of the new season and, to that end, we have already embarked upon the process which will lead to the appointment of a new manager.

"We will update when appropriate and until such time as we can make an announcement there will be no further comment from the Club on this matter."

Houllier also commented on the decision, revealing that his health has improved recently and expressing his gratitude to Villa, claiming it isn't the end of his stint in football.

"I am extremely disappointed that I will not have the opportunity to manage Aston Villa next season,” he said.

"My health has improved considerably since I was taken ill on April 20. I now intend to take the next few months to concentrate on recuperating fully before I may return to football.

"I was very much looking forward to the prospect of my first full season as Villa manager and returning for pre-season training to prepare for the campaign ahead, a luxury that I did not have last season.

"I have been extremely touched by all of the messages I have received and by the reaction of people throughout the world of football.

"I am very grateful to the Villa fans for their genuine concern and encouragement and to the fans of clubs up and down the country for their kind sentiments.

"I would especially like to thank my assistant manager, Gary McAllister, my staff, the players and all at Aston Villa for their support and, of course, for their efforts in securing a very positive end to last season.

"It has been an honor to manage this great club and I wish everyone connected with Aston Villa every success for the future."

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