Liverpool lead tributes as former manager Houllier dies at age of 73
Former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has died at the age of 73.
The Frenchman, who also managed Aston Villa later in his career, guided the Reds to an FA Cup, League Cup and Uefa Cup treble in 2001, the highlight of his six-year spell in charge.
Houllier also managed Paris St Germain, Lyon and the France national team during his career.
"We are mourning the passing of our treble-winning manager, Gerard Houllier," the Premier League champions said on Twitter. "The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Gerard's family and many friends. Rest in peace, Gerard Houllier 1947-2020."
A post from Villa read: "All at Aston Villa are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gerard Houllier, our manager during the 2010-11 season.
"Our thoughts are with Gerard's loved one sat this incredibly difficult time."
Houllier' sdeathw as first reported by French media, who said he had recently undergone heart surgery - having suffering from heart complications for several years.
In October 2001, he fell ill at half-time during Liverpool's match against Leeds and was diagnosed with an aortic dissection which required emergency surgery and led to a five-month spell out of the dugout.
Houlliersuffe red further health problems while with Villa. Admitted to hospital on April 20, 2011 he did not return to work before stepping down by mutual consent on June 1.
It proved to be his final job in day-to-day management. More recently, Houllier worked as the head of global football for the Red Bull group which owns RB Leipzig, RB Salzburg and the New York Red Bulls, as well as advising Lyon.
Houllier's career was marked by several successes, including the 1986 French Division 1 title with PSG and Ligue 1 titles with Lyon in 2006 and 2007, but the tributes paid yesterday also spoke to his popularity as an individual.
Rangers manager Steven Garrard, who broke through as a Liverpool player under Houllier, wrote on Instagram: "Devastated to hear the news my former manager Gerard Houllier has passed away. I will never forget what this man did for me and my career. Rest in peace Boss ?? YNWA x"
Former Liverpool for ward and manager Sir Kenny Dalglish tweeted :" Very sad news about Gerard Houllier. He was a gentleman and a great footballing person; I enjoyed his company many times. His legacy at LFC will forever be appreciated, respected and never forgotten. Marina and I offer our sincere condolences to his family. RIP Gerard. YNWA."
Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson described Houllier as a "great ally" and said his death came as a "total shock".
He said on the United website: "Gerard became a really good friend during his time at Liverpool. We remained great friends after he left and he was always a great ally to have.
"He had fantastic football knowledge which he gained during his extensive and varied career. When we saw each other at Uefa meetings or other events, we would often enjoy a chat, he was always great company and I will miss him dearly. He was a true gentleman.
"It is a sad day for the football world and my thoughts are with his family at this desperately sad time."