Ireland has struggled to make an impact since his £8 million summermove to Villa as part of the deal which saw James Milner head in theopposite direction to Manchester City.
Sidelined: Stephen Ireland (right) ruled out with a knee injury
He was encouraged to 'work harder' early in Houllier's reign and has not played since the 3-0 defeat at Liverpool in early December.
Now it has emerged Ireland has been ruled out for the past fortnight with the knee setback suffered in training which also rules him out of contention for tomorrow's Birmingham derby.
Houllier confirmed: 'Stephen Ireland has a knee injury. He has been out for two to three weeks now, I think.
'It's a ligament. It will probably be another week (out of action) but he can't train yet.'
Houllier has received more encouraging news regarding right-back Luke Young, who has returned to training after recovering from his knee problem.
The Villa boss said: 'Luke Young has just got back from his injury.
'He returned to training with the first team for the first time yesterday.'
Young may face a battle to regain his place as Houllier has signed Tottenham's Kyle Walker on loan for the remainder of the season.
Aston Villa step up their chase for defender Maynor FigueroaDion Dublin tells Villa: Play like men, not boys and show Birmingham what you're really made ofASTON VILLA FC: All the latest news from across the web
Explore more:People: Luke Young Places: Birmingham, Liverpool, Ireland
Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail