A final day in the clash that had been thought to be a Champions League decider between Liverpool and Newcastle could allow the Midlanders to secure a top four place that few would have thought possible at the start of the season.
While many pundits and supporters stil expect Champions League veterans Liverpool and Newcastle to seal a tip four placing, Houllier refuses to underestimate the Villa Park outfit.
Houllier said: Villa are a real threat. They are real contenders and we now have to compete with them as well as Newcastle.
"The fight for fourth place will go right to the end. I have always said we must be aware of Aston Villa and consider them a threat."