Houllier hint for French starlets

LIVERPOOL boss Gerard Houllier has hinted he may bring French talents Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Anthony Le Tallec to England much sooner than previously expected.

The Reds own both the French stars, but have left them on loan at Le Havre to mature.

The French club slipped from the top flight last season, and other clubs across the Channel have shown a determination to acquire their services.

There has been recent interest in Le Tallec (pictured) from Lens, but it appears Houllier is ready to offer the talented young player the move he has been dreaming of.

"I want them to do all the preparation with us," said Houllier. "Then they can start adjusting to the language, some of the players and the level of the game.

"When I see the time needed to adapt by some players - like Milan Baros - I think the sooner they can start the better.

"The league does not start until August 16th and we will take stock at that time."

There are also suggestions that Gregory Vignal will be recalled from his impressive loan spell with Bastia in order to boost the ranks at Anfield.

Houllier is staying coy about any other arrivals, insisting that he is not going to rush into anything.

"As for the rest it is very calm, and, for the moment, I will let people talk.

"The only certainty, about arrivals, it is Steve Finnan, the Fulham Irish right full back."

Finnan will wear the number three shirt vacated by Portuguese defender Abel Xavier.

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