The England international netted only his fourth goal of the season to earn victory over a resurgent Southampton team. Houllier feels the goal will be the start of a rich vein of form for the £11m striker.
Houllier said: "I said we will see the best of Emile after the new year. Unfortunately he got injuries again around Christmas.
"Emile was unlucky because the last 18 games he's started he's had to leave the field with injury about eight or nine times."
