Houllier backs Keegan

Gerard Houllier says Keegan can go it alone

Gerard Houllier has ruled out the possibility of joining Kevin Keegan's England set up

Liverpool manager Houllier has been touted as a potential advisor to Keegan following England's ill-fated Euro 2000 campaign.

Houllier - a technical advisor to Uefa - is regarded as one of the world's most progressive coaches.

But the man who was technical director when France won the World Cup in 1998 insists Keegan does not need his assistance.

He spoke exclusively to BBC Sport Online and said: "This suggestion is a nonsense.

"Kevin Keegan does not need my help. Kevin needs the confidence and patience of the people in this country, and of course the people who appointed him.

Kevin Keegan does not need my help. He needs patience, trust and confidence

Gerard Houllier

"I am sure he will get this, and feel Kevin has been treated very harshly and unfairly regarding England's performances in Euro 2000."

Houllier added: "I think those who criticise him will do well to remember Bobby Robson, who was nothing after England's performances in the 1988 European Championships.

"Bobby was everything two years later when he almost led England to the World Cup Final in Italy."

Houllier's fellow countryman Arsene Wenger and FA technical director Howard Wilkinson have also been mentioned as men who might help Keegan overcome his perceived tactical naivety.

Keegan in despair after Euro 2000 exit

But Houllier added: "Kevin has not been England coach very long at all, and he needs trust and confidence.

"Of course we speak, and when we speak we usually talk football. If he has any questions I answer them, but he does not need my help to coach England because he is very capable.

"What he needs is the support of other managers, and l will gladly be among the first to give it to him.

"I hope he is told that he is England's leader and told to simply help England qualify for the next World Cup."