Domenache today launched a furious attack upon the former French national coach for what he deemed to be 'abnormal' treatment of the two starlets since their much-awaited arrival at Anfield this summer.
Neither player has yet to make even a fleeting first-team appearance this season but Houllier has insisted that he has only the best interests of his young charges at heart.
Houllier said: "I won't start a controversy, they are not out of form. Anthony is in the group and will start soon. They played matches and had the same preparation as the rest of the team. I appreciate them very much and I am very happy to have signed them.
"Moreover, I didn't force them to sign. I warned them they will need time. The English league is special and you need a time to adapt: perhaps six months."