"To me, it was a coward's challenge and the player's reaction was appalling," Houllier said.
"He was complaining about being sent off as he left the pitch.
"I'm gutted for Jamie. He won't be able to play for six months. Neill will be back after three games.
"I can imagine what Graeme Souness would have been saying if one of his players had their leg broken in a similar way."