"Aston Villa" strategist in hospital will miss match against "Stoke" © EuroFootball.com

In hospital, Birmingham manager Gerard Houllier is unlikely to be able to lead the team in Saturday's English Championship match against Stoke.

The Frenchman, who has been suffering from heart problems for several years, felt unwell on Tuesday evening, but is currently in good condition.

In October 2001, while managing Liverpool at the time, Houllier had to be rushed to the hospital for a life-saving heart operation due to pains during a match against Leeds.

While Houllier is in hospital, Aston Villa will be led by his assistant Gary McAllister.