Former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has died at the age of 73.

The news was confirmed by L'Equipe and RMC in France just days after the former France manager had undergone a heart operation.

Houllier also managed Aston Villa and Lyon during a hugely successful managerial career, the highlight being his treble-winning season at Liverpool.

Joining the club alongside Roy Evans in 1998, he became a hit with the fans and led the club to a League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup treble in 2001.

In October 2001, Houllier was rushed to hospital with Phil Thompson taking temporary charge at Anfield after the discovery of a heart condition.

Houllier remained at Liverpool until 2004, being replaced by Rafa Benitez.

He returned to the Premier League in 2010, taking charge of Aston Villa, leading them to a ninth-place finish.

He was forced to quit at the end of the 2010/11 season after his health deteriorated.

Match of the Day host Gary Linekerpaid tribute on social media: "Oh no! Gerard Houllier has passed away. One of football’s smartest, warmest and loveliest people."

Michael Owen, who played under Houllier, tweeted: "Absolutely heartbroken to hear that my old boss, Gérard Houllier, has sadly passed away. A great manager and a genuinely caring man."