Aston Villa No2 Gary McAllister admits manager Gerard Houllier is disappointed to miss their clash with Roy Hodgson's West Bromwich Albion.
Hodgson was straight on the phone to Aston Villa following pal Houllier's heart scare.
McAllister, who is in charge while the Frenchman recovers, said: "This is a game Gerard would've enjoyed because as much as they do share the odd glass of wine, you know what these guys are like.
"When the game starts they are desperate to get one over on their friend.
"We saw Roy at a reserve game the day before Gerard went into hospital and he was one of the first on the phone. They're close friends."
