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Gerard Houllier has backed Liverpool FC to go on and clinch the Premier League title – and believes it would be a fitting reward for the club’s “special” supporters.

The former Reds boss was back at Anfield on Easter Monday, managing a team of international legends at the Celebration of the 96 charity match .

The Frenchman has been an interested observer as Brendan Rodgers has guided the current Liverpool side to the brink of greatness.

The Reds are five points clear at the top of the table with three games remaining.

And Houllier believes ending the club’s 24-year wait for a league championship would be the perfect way to mark the 25th anniversary of Hillsborough .

“You couldn’t have a better trophy for the 25th anniversary,” he said.

“We came close to winning it in the past, whether it was with me or Rafa Benitez, but we never quite managed it.

“Hats off to the players, and to Brendan, who has led this team remarkably well.

“Just look at what happened today, with 45,000 fans out to show their support.

“It would be the best reward for the fans to have a league title.”

Watch: LFC will win the league says Gerard Houllier

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Asked if he believes Rodgers’ side will finish the job, Houllier said: “Yes, they will.

“They have three games, but the team has got consistency and a lot of confidence.

“They play and they go forward, they will always score goals, and they want it so badly that I think they will finish even stronger.

“It’s difficult now, even more so perhaps because you have clubs like Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, big clubs with big history and, in most cases, more financial means.

“But hats off to Brendan. I appreciate his philosophy and the way he goes about managing people. I like the man as much as I like the manager. He has done a remarkable job.”

Houllier had earlier watched on as his side drew 2-2 with a team of “local” LFC legends in front of a full house at Anfield.

Vladimir Smicer and Bruno Cheyrou were on target for the international legends, with Robbie Fowler scoring twice – one from the penalty spot – for Kenny Dalglish’s local side.

“I think everyone was happy it was a draw,” Houllier laughed. “But seriously, what a special day.

“I enjoyed the class which was shown on the field, and also in the stands.

“The people remember the quality of these players, and there was a joyful atmosphere because of the memories that were brought back. It was special, both on and off the pitch.”

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