Houllier said: "We have two games left which I consider a semi-final and a final. All our focus now must be on Manchester City because we know if we can get through that we will be playing our direct opponents for the Champions League in the last game.
"I have to say I'm glad we are playing Chelsea in our final game because that means it is a final for both teams and the outcome is on our own hands. I think that's the best way to settle it.
"If we were both playing different teams to some extent they would have the advantage because we would be relying on another side to help us. This way is better because we know what we have to do.
"My players seem to be playing with a peaceful authority at the moment. They are calm about the situation."