The brother of Nicolas Anelka has hit back at Gerard Houllier over his claims that they were to blame for the striker failing to sign permanently with Liverpool in 2002.

Claude Anelka told Aujourd'hui Sport: "In my mind, Houllier wanted to teach us a lesson.

"Houllier should stop his lies! He should take responsibility, instead of always blaming others. I regret that he has used us and Nick."

Last week, Chelsea striker Anelka admitted he played his best football while at Anfield with Houllier.