Houllier said: "Only Chelsea with their vast squad could cope with the loss of as many players as we are having to handle.
"If Manchester United lost (Ruud) van Nistelrooy and (Paul) Scholes and Arsenal were without (Thierry) Henry and (Robert) Pires, they would struggle too.
The Frenchman, showing signs of frustration at the club's plight, also admitted that he would once again be posed serious questions concerning his role at the club by 'phone-in fans'.
He added: "We know now that we have to dig deep, this is a tough period for us. I believe the fans who were here at least understand the problem even if they are frustrated. I doubt whether the phone-in fans will understand."
