Houllier has high hopes for Diouf

The Reds boss, though, feels the Senegal international could be best deployed in a wide position. It was Diouf, of course, who set up Michael Owen's goal against Aston Villa with a fine run across the penalty area.

Houllier said: "I think there are signs Diouf is coming to terms with the English game. A lot of people have said that after last Saturday's game.

"It could be he is more effective in a wide position. I thought he did well in that position against Villa and it's something we will look at.

"It was his run which lead to our goal and he had other good moments in the game. That was a positive for us."