GERARD Houllier is remaining in regular contact with Randy Lerner as the Villa boss strives to pacify disgruntled fans calling for his sacking.

Lerner has remained firmly behind Houllier in the wake of chants for his dismissal the end of the defeat to Sunderland, which plunged Villa into the bottom three.

And Houllier admits he will not let the criticism “pollute” his plans for reviving the claret and blues’ season and making it up to supporters.

Chief executive Paul Faulkner reassured Houllier immediately after the midweek setback that his job was safe. “He came and was extremely supportive,” said Houllier. “Randy and he were absolutely brilliant.

“We talk on a regular basis. He knows we are here for better and for worse. Now, it’s tough but we have got to go through it together.

“I’ve experienced other difficult periods at other clubs sometimes, but it always ended up with success afterwards, so we keep going.

“It’s enlightening in terms of knowing your people and the people round you, the people who employ you but also the players.

“This is not a child’s game it’s a game for men and for responsibilities. You need stability, you need continuity, you need trust and faith. Those virtues belong to Aston Villa Football Club.

“You lose a game and it’s a crisis. You win a game and you are hero. It’s a long term job, I have got the backing of the people at the club which is very important.