Stewart Downing will be a ‘very big asset’ for Liverpool – former boss Gerard Houllier

Stewart Downing, England (Getty Images)

Related Links

Teams

Players

Former Liverpool and Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier has predicted new Reds signing Stewart Downing will be a huge success on Merseyside.

The former Villa and Middlesbrough winger signed for the Reds last week after completing a move, believe to be £20 million,from the Midlands side.

Houllier, who worked closely with Downing during his spell at Villa Park last season, praised the winger’s abilities and predicted a bright future for the player.

“Stewart will fit in very well at Liverpool,” Houllier told BBC Sport.

“I like him very much as a player and I am certain he will be a very big asset to them.”

“Stewart is a very modern player. He can attack and defend and was involved in so many goals for Villa last season.

“He is one of the best crossers of a ball in the Premier League with either his right or left foot and is very skillful.”

Downing was Liverpool’s second big-money signing of the summer following the arrival of Jordan Henderson from Sunderland, and Houllier believes his versatility will be a key benefit for Kenny Dalglish next season.

“He operates well on either side. I played him on the left but he also likes to play on the right, where he can cut inside and pose problems,” he continued.

“He is adaptable and versatile and of course all managers appreciate that.

“He picks up the details that can be so important. He has played for England but I now think he is ready to go on and confirm and consolidate his career as an international.”

Downing made 44 appearances for Houllier’s side last season, and was one of Villa’s star performers in what was a disappointing season, and the Frenchman singled the winger out as someone he could always rely on to give 100 per cent on the pitch.

“I very much enjoyed working with him at Aston Villa.

“Along with Ashley Young, he really improved his game. He is a good trainer, works hard and is that modern player.

“Stewart is also a team-player and if you are under the cosh he is willing to do more than his normal job, which is a very important quality.

It is Downing’s professionalism and consistency that really impressed Houllier, and clearly Dalglish, and seeing the winger move to the North West left him with a tinge of disappointment despite him joining another club close to the Frenchman’s heart.

“As a coach or manager, Stewart is a player who never disappoints you,” he added.

“Over 10 games he will give you nine very good performances and this is why I think he will be a good signing for Liverpool.

“It was disappointing that Villa couldn’t keep Stewart, but when a player does not want to sign a new contract you have to get the best deal you can and then find a replacement, which is what I am sure Villa will do.”