Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel says Gerard Houllier didn't know how to handle former Liverpool teammate Emile Heskey.

Heskey has been outstanding for Wigan and England this season and Friedel says: "It meant you didn't notice his presence as much. That was the way Houllier wanted him to play but Steve Bruce plays him up the middle and he causes loads of problems.

"Fabio Capello has been doing the same thing with him for England and you can see what has happened.

"I am not surprised at his revival."