Gerard Houllier is excited about succeeding Martin O'Neill as Aston Villa manager.
Houllier revealed he rejected other offers before taking charge at Villa and hopes to build on the success achieved under O'Neill.
He said: "It was really starting to tickle me. I wanted to go back pitchside.
"I had, of course, other proposals but this one seemed to be the most interesting in terms of working conditions and environment.
"Aston Villa is not a club on the same level as Liverpool, let's be objective and honest.
"It's a club that according to me has belonged between seventh and 12th place in the Premier League.
"But, above all, it's a historic club which has won the European Cup.
"It's a club which has got good infrastructure and a fine team which is after one thing - to improve year on year."