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PETALING JAYA: Former Liverpool and Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier has passed away at the age of 73, British and French media report.
The Frenchman, who spent six years at Anfield, died a few days after a heart operation, according to reports from both. The team and RMC.
Match of the day Host Gary Lineker immediately paid tribute on social media, saying, “Oh no! Gerard Houllier passed away. One of the smartest, warmest and most charming people in football.”
Oh no! Gerard Houllier has passed away. One of the smartest, warmest and most charming people in football. #RIPGerard
– Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) December 14, 2020
Houllier initially came to Anfield in July 1998, joining the club as co-manager with Roy Evans, before leading the club to many cup successes, but not the much coveted Premier League championship.
In 2001, Liverpool won five cups, but in October of that year he had to undergo emergency heart surgery after falling ill on the bench during a game against Leeds United.
Houllier left Liverpool in 2004, to be replaced by another fan favorite, Rafa Benítez.
He then coached Lyon of France in 2005, before returning to England to take over at Aston Villa in 2010.
However, due to ongoing medical problems, he resigned after only nine months in office.
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