Aston Villa is a happy place under manager Alex McLeish, says midfielder Barry Bannan.
Gerard Houllier - who stood down in June due to ill health - had bust-ups with several players including Richard Dunne and James Collins.
The club was in danger of self-destructing but McLeish's arrival has brought harmony back to Villa Park.
Scotland midfielder Bannan told the Sunday Mail: "Last season Houllier had differences with a few players who were big parts of the team.
"You can see that this season with Stephen Warnock, who has been one of our best players.
"He is a big character so when he was left out and had to train with the reserves last season it was hard for all his mates in the team.
"It wasn't good last year but now you can see a big difference. Everyone is pulling in the same direction.
"There is also respect around the place. Last season if you were a big player you could answer back but I don't think that will happen this year. It is better that way.
"Training has also improved. The gaffer has made a big difference and it is showing in the results we have had so far.
"It was a difficult time last season as a youngster coming through, a section of the fans booed during some games."
