In the later years of Houllier's stewardship it didn't seem likely that we would have a team this good for a while. We are now not only feared throughout Europe but are getting very close to domestic supremacy too.
I think the achievements I have outlined above should command respect. What makes him popular though are some of the human qualities that many people have already posted such as his relationship with the fans (making time for them, talking to them in the pub etc) and his understanding of the clubs values.
Basically, success and his personality (lame terminology I know) are a potent combination.
is that supposed to mean something mate?
Perhaps, he was referring to the number of supporters who rang in to radio phone in's to spout a load of shit along the lines of 'sack Rafa, we'll never win f*ck all with him in charge' (conveniently forgetting how successful we have been with him in charge). These people seem to be a bit quiet at the moment but a dodgy result against Fulham might see a few pop their heads up