Houllier: Liverpool must come first

FA guidelines state that a player cannot represent his country whilst he is serving a ban. The FA, aware that Gerrard would miss England's clash with Australia if the ban began immediately, offered to delay the punishment until February 17.

Houllier, though, knew that such an arrangement would mean that the 22 year- old would miss the Worthington Cup final with Manchester United. The Reds boss made it clear to his player that Liverpool must come first.

Houllier, speaking to Liverpool's official website, said: "'They said the suspension could start now and I said yes. They also gave me the option of the suspension starting on the 17th which meant he could play for England but miss the Worthington Cup Final. I don't know why!

"Somebody mentioned to me he could play for the national team and I said 'No chance, no chance'. The player understands too."