Gerard Houllier wants talks with “stupid” John Carew
Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier has admitted he will speak to striker John Carew, following the pair’s public fall-out last week.
The Frenchman branded the striker “stupid” last week after his outburst over Houllier’s suggestion that he needs to earn a new contract at the club. Carew wasn’t happy with the new manager’s
comment and with tensions rising, Houllier wants to clear the air with his player, who he also had a frosty relationship with while the pair were at Lyon together.
In the aftermath to Villa’s 1-1 draw at Fulham, Houllier stated on the matter: “I shall be speaking to him (Carew), of course.”
Villa fans will certainly hope the Frenchman can get his star striker back on-side, as options in the striker position are limited. Carew is the club’s most potent striker, although since
Houllier arrived this season, he has preferred the presence of Emile Heskey, who he is a known long time admirer of.
But Carew’s outburst last week suggests that the relationship may be beyond repair. The Norwegian striker told
The Telegraph last week, “I don't know if he has a problem with me, but if he does then he should talk to me about it. It requires mutual respect. I am puzzled and offended. He should have been here a little longer before he started making demands.”
At 31-year-old Carew is entering the last phase of his career, and Houllier is perhaps merited to suggest that Carew prove he is still worthy of a place in his plans. Villa clearly needs
a new striking option and although that doesn’t necessarily mean Carew doesn’t have a role at Villa Park, is does mean that Houllier is well within his rights to assess the situation as the season, as well was Carew.
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