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Tributes have continued to pour in for former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier, who died at the age of 73.
Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to the “true gentleman” Gerard Houllier following the death of the former Liverpool manager at the age of 73.
Houllier managed Liverpool for six years until 2004 and won five major trophies with the club, including a memorable treble in 2000-01, as well as the Community Shield in 2001.
The Frenchman was in direct competition with Manchester United’s great Ferguson during his time at Anfield, the pair forging a close friendship off the pitch.
Reacting to Monday’s confirmation of Houllier’s passing, a day after undergoing heart surgery, Ferguson told the United website: “The news was a total shock this morning.
“Gerard Houllier was still a young man at the age of 73. Gerard became a very good friend during his time in Liverpool.
“We are still great friends after he left and he was always a great ally. He had a fantastic knowledge of football that he acquired during his long and varied career.”
“When we saw each other at UEFA meetings or other eventsWe often enjoyed a chat, he was always great company and I will miss him very much. He was a true gentleman.
“It is a sad day for the world of soccer and my thoughts are with his family at this desperately sad time.”
Houllier was also at Le Touquet, Noeux-les-Mines and Lens early in his distinguished coaching career, before guiding Paris Saint-Germain to the Ligue 1 title in 1986.
He then worked as France’s technical director and assistant coach with Michel Platini in 1988 before taking over as coach in 1992, but resigned a year later after Les Blues failed to make it to the World Cup.
However, it was during his time in Liverpool, initially as co-manager alongside Roy Evans and later as senior manager, where he enjoyed his most successful stint in the dugout.
Evans had been in charge since 1994, but stepped aside a few months after Houllier’s arrival, admitting at the time that his arrangement wasn’t working.
“Incredibly sad news of Gerrard Houllier’s passing,” Evans posted on Twitter.
“A gentleman for whom I have the utmost respect and what he accomplished at Liverpool football club. Condolences to his family. RIP.”
Phil Thompson: “Devestated and Heartbreak”
Phil Thompson served as Houllier’s assistant after Evans’ departure and was one of those who paid his respects Monday.
“I am absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the sad news of Gerard’s passing.” he said. “My partner, my colleague, my boss.
“One of the best moments of my life was when we met in 1998. Just being in his company was an absolute pleasure. So loyal, so passionate and extremely fierce.
“So many wonderful moments that bring smile back to people’s faces. 2001 should never be forgotten.
“Since we finished, at the end of every conversation we had, I told him that I loved him and would always be grateful for his wonderful partnership. RIP Boss.”
Houllier later coached Lyon in Ligue 1 before returning to the Premier League for a season with Aston Villa.
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
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