Houllier takes his Villa side to former club Liverpool on Monday night and is hoping for inspiration from the Scottish pass-master.
The 21-year old has dazzled the Premier League with his exceptional technical ability, making mockery of claims he is too small to make an impact in the top flight.
"I told him that all the best players in the world are smaller," said Houllier. "Xavi, Messi, Iniesta, Pedro - you see them at Barcelona and wonder whether they are playing for the youth team."
Bannan admits Barcelona`s stars have given him great encouragement: "You see the world and European champions of Spain and Barcelona and they are all 5ft 8in maximum," he said.
"When you look at players like that it boosts your confidence. If they can do it, why can`t I?"
Source: PA
Source: PA