Gerard Houllier 'set for Aston Villa exit'

Villa today refused to comment on the future of manager Gerard Houllier but sources at the club have told the Express & Star that the Frenchman will step down as boss in the next 24 hours.

The 63-year-old was admitted to hospital on April 20 complaining of chest problems and was subsequently diagnosed with a dissection of the lower aorta.

Assistant boss Gary McAllister filled in on an interim basis until the end of the season and Houllier had been optimistic of a return to the dugout having made encouraging progress.

But following discussions with medical staff, owner Randy Lerner, chief executive Paul Faulkner and his family the decision has been made to allow him to step down.

And former Villa boss Ron Atkinson today tipped Everton manager David Moyes to take on the Villa job.

Atkinson, who managed Villa between 1991 and 1994, believes the Scot would be the ideal man to replace Houllier.

"It is sad to see that Gerard will be forced to step down but ultimately he is doing the right thing by listening to medical advice," Atkinson told the Express & Star.