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Barry to remain a Villa player

27/08/2008

Gareth Barry's agent has confirmed that the England midfielder will not join Liverpool this summer and instead will remain an Aston Villa player.

The 27-year-old has been the subject of one of the most protracted transfer rumours of the summer, with Reds manager Rafael Benitez making no secret of his desire to take Barry to Anfield.

However, in a development that is likely to please Villa fans who have remained loyal to their club captain, Barry's agent Alex Black has confirmed his client will not be moving on.

"After much speculation I can confirm that Gareth Barry will not leave Aston Villa before the transfer window closes," Black said in a statement.

"Gareth made the decision to stay two weeks ago and informed Aston Villa of his intentions.

"During this time discussions have taken place to decide the best way forward for all parties.

"Any talks regarding potential new contracts at Aston Villa will not take place until the end of the season.

"Gareth wants to concentrate on playing to the best of his ability for Aston Villa, and we hope this draws a line under the matter."

Villa boss Martin O'Neill had put a price-tag of around £18 million on his star midfielder earlier in the summer.

But he has continually made it clear that he would ideally have liked to keep Barry as he looks to build a squad capable of challenging for a place in European competition next season.