Pressure is on us now, says Houllier

The pressure on Gerard Houllier increased today following renewed speculation linking Liverpool with Martin O'Neill.

As Standard Sport revealed two weeks ago, the Celtic manager is a target for Tottenham but he could spurn White Hart Lane should the Liverpool job become available.

Houllier's side lost more ground in the title race yesterday when they were beaten 3-2 by Charlton at The Valley while all three of their major rivals - Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea - won over weekend.

The Frenchman admitted their humbling defeat adds extra significance to next Saturday's home clash with Arsenal.

He said: "Arsenal next are a big test because we are some points behind them now so it will be make or break and the boys know it - they know they have to respond.

"We were in control of the game and made some silly mistakes but we've got to blame ourselves. We let ourselves down."

Vladimir Smicer opened the scoring for Liverpool but a Kevin Lisbie hat-trick earned the home side an impressive win.