Houllier has won just three times in 14 Premier League matches with Villa following the 4-0 drubbing by Manchester City.
"Before this game, another three points, which we could have got against Fulham or Manchester United, would have put us in the top half," reflected the Frenchman.
"But I told the players they also have to look the other way. There is a drop zone behind and we are very near. We are in a dogfight for that. We have to acknowledge that."
Houllier revealed Ashley Young may return from a knee injury when Villa face fellow struggling Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Source: PA
Source: PA