Houllier targets financial balance

Houllier must reduce the wage bill (GETTY IMAGES)

Aston Villa manager Gérard Houllier has admitted it is part of his remit to find a "better balance" between the club's large wage bill and turnover.

Villa, who visit Manchester City tonight, suffered losses of more than £37m for the year ending 31 May, 2010, while wages rose to almost £80m last season.

"[Finding a balance] is part of my mission," Houllier said. "It will be done gradually and we've got a great academy as well. We want to maximise the potential and the facilities are made for players to grow and improve."