Newly appointed Aston Villa (9/1 to finish in the top four) boss Gerard Houllier believes that the club is set for a new era as they target a top four finish in the Premier League this season.
Villa have been on the hunt for a new manager since Martin O’Neill walked out on the club just five days before the start of the new season.
USA boss Bob Bradley was the favourite to become the next manager at Villa Park but Houllier has been given the challenge of getting the Midlands side into the Champions League qualifying positions.
The Frenchman has been given a three-year-deal as he looks to stabilise the club after the surprise exit of O’Neill.
The club and Houllier’s representatives are still finalising terms but the 63-year-old is expected to be in the role after the match against Stoke City on Monday.
The former Liverpool (6/4 to finish in the top four) boss has stated that he is keen to get on with the job as the club looks to move forward.
He said: “I’m pleased, I’m proud, I’m hungry, I’m healthy and I can’t wait to come.
“I had several offers but it looked as if Aston Villa like to do things as a team. I like to work as a team and I can feel that we are going to be in this together.
“It’s a new era, in terms of training, in terms of habits, in terms of everything,” he added.
Houllier has not managed in the Premier League since he left Anfield back in 2004 but the former Lyon boss believes he can still make an impact in one of the toughest competitions in the world.
When asked if Villa could challenge for a top four finish Houllier stated that given time the club can achieve that target.
He said: “The team will probably improve in the long run and if we are spared by injuries and also manage to get one or two players at the right time, then why not?
“But the aim of course is Europe, places of honours and silverware.
“We know where we want to go, we know it will take time, that’s why I was passionate about getting back into management,” he added.
Houllier looks likely to take charge of the side ahead of their Premier League clash against Bolton Wanderers at Villa Park on September 18.
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