LYON, Jan 25 (SW) – Lyon coach Gerard Houllier has conceded that he needs to strengthen his defence if he wants to give his side the best chance of success this season.

"It would be too stupid to spoil the rest of our season due to a lack of defenders," admitted the former Liverpool boss.

"That is why I want to hire one or two additional defenders. The problem is a little complex because it would be perfect to buy players who are able to play in the Champions League.

"Glen Johnson is an attractive right back but Jose Mourinho and Chelsea do not want to let him leave.

"Vincent Kompany is, at first, very expensive and Anderlecht only want a transfer next summer.

"Mikael Silvestre is a player able to appeal to us because he can play in the centre and on the left. The question is to know if he wants to leave Manchester.

"However, he has already played in the Champions League.

"Sebastien Squillaci is another very exciting player, even for the future. But he can't play in the Champions League as well this season.

"Patrick Muller would be perfect if Basel could loan him. His great asset is to know the club perfectly and he has already proved a lot here,” said Houllier referring to the fact that Muller has previously been a Lyon player.

One player that Houllier may have a greater chance of signing is Caen defender Ronald Zubar, who would also be eligible for Champions League registration.

"Zubar-Muller would be great for me, but it could also be Zubar-Squillaci or Zubar-Silvestre," said Houllier.