Sacked Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has defended his record and warned the club not to go looking for a quick fix to their problems.
Houllier believes he has gone some way towards re-establishing Liverpool as a major force and argues that the club should not sacrifice his work in its quest for success.
“It is important for the club to find a balance in a world driven by economic and political needs. This club usually does that,” Houllier said.
“The club needs to consider its roots and understand that it can’t always have a quick fix.”
“I would have been extremely happy to carry on my job. I wanted to and intended to,” he said.
“The reason we have agreed to part company is because of the sudden excessive pressure on the board and myself.
“The pressure, I can cope with, but I thought it could have been harmful for the players in next season’s campaign.
“I thought it could jeopardise their performance and achievement and that’s why we agreed to come to this situation. I have always said the club comes first.”
Houllier, who suffered a heart attack in October 2001, described the reception he received from supporters when he returned to the bench, as one of the highlights of his time at Anfield.
“I am in good shape. I still love my football and will be going to Euro 2004. I am not retiring.
“There is no bitterness, but naturally huge sadness and I will always remain a fan,” he added.
“The club is in my heart and one of the most fantastic in the world. The club has considerably improved both on and off the field, and it must keep on developing.”
