Houllier is hoping Pires can inspire Villa youngsters

Gerard Houllier believes new signing Robert Pires can have a major influence on Aston Villa's cluster of rising young talent.

Pires has put pen to paper on a six-month deal and could make his debut in tomorrow's Barclays Premier League clash at Blackburn, subject to international clearance.

And Houllier feels the 37-year-old can help the likes of Marc Albrighton, Barry Bannan and Ciaran Clark with their development.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Bannan followed the other two in committing his future to the club by yesterday signing a new three-and-a-half-year deal.

Houllier said: "I am used to signing old players because I signed Gary McAllister at Liverpool when he was 35.

"He helped us to deliver and get some trophies. When McAllister came to Liverpool, I definitely think it helped Steven Gerrard.

"Pires can also help our younger players develop. It's not only during games, you practice every day in training.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"His game intelligence, experience, attitude, is a good example for the young and sometimes they need tips.

"They can get tips from the manager but can also get tips from players.

"They will be extremely eager to have what he can deliver in terms of attitude and messages, I would say."

Houllier believes Pires still has the desire to succeed in the Premier League, four years after leaving Arsenal, with whom he has been training for the past two months.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: "Robert is hungry. That is the main thing. He has got the desire to play. He wants to win things for us.

"It is better to do that in the next 18 months because after that it will be more difficult.

"Robert has never been the quickest but he has got quick feet and the eye for the pass and he will make goals for us. He can score as well."

Pires admits he will take time to regain full sharpness, but is relishing the challenges ahead.

He said: "I've trained for two months with Arsenal and for me now it was a good opportunity to join Villa and Gerard Houllier.

"I know him, I know his work and he is very good. I am very happy here."