Aston Villa boss rules out move for Real Madrid striker

Reports earlier on Friday suggested that Benzema could join Aston Villa on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Houllier said: “I don’t think Benzema will come to Villa. Jose (Mourinho) said he is missing strikers so how can he get rid of one of the only ones he has available at the moment?

“I think he is trying to sign a new striker. I didn’t even dare to get in touch with Jose because I know the situation he is in at the moment!”

He added: “I am not looking to sign a striker. Not at the moment. I’m quite happy with Emile [Heskey] and John Carew did extremely well this week in training.

“I think he will be involved at some stage in the game. Maybe he will start.

“I will see, but he looked fine. Now his fitness level is better.”