Source: Daily_Mail
Barry rues Aston Villa collapse as England manager Capello steers clear
Villa's middle man: Barry[LNB]Gareth Barry believes the dearth of Aston Villa players in the latest England squad is a reflection of the alarming slump in form of Martin O'Neill's side. [LNB]Fabio Capello had named up to six Villa players in his plans earlier in the campaign with Barry, Emile Heskey, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Ashley Young, Luke Young and Curtis Davies included at various times. [LNB]But only Barry and Heskey were included for Saturday's friendly with Slovakia and the World Cup qualifier with Ukraine tomorrow (Wednesday), and the latter has been forced to withdraw with a hamstring injury. [LNB]Barry said: 'A few weeks back, when Aston Villa were flying and on a great run, we had six players in the England squad. Now we have just two. [LNB]'It's tough (seeing so many dropped) but not really a surprise when you see the form we've been in. [LNB]'We've only picked up one or two points up from the last 15 and now have two players in the squad so I am probably not surprised.'[LNB]It seems unthinkable that Capello would jettison Barry given he has started England's last nine internationals. [LNB][LNB][LNB] Tall order: Heskey has been ruled out of England's clash with Ukraine but Barry reckons Crouch (below) can step in and do a job[LNB]And the 28-year-old is quick to praise the impact O'Neill has made on his development during his three years at Villa Park. [LNB] He said: 'My game has improved so much since Martin O'Neill came in. He was the one who initially switched me into central midfield and that coincided with my international call-up. [LNB]'I owe a lot to Martin O'Neill. He has given me confidence at club level and improved me as a player as well.'[LNB]Peter Crouch is likely to recover from a knock against Slovakia in time to face Ukraine and Barry is confident his ex-Villa team-mate can effectively replace Heskey. [LNB]Barry said: 'There aren't too many about who can play that role as Emile does. He's been a big part of teams wherever he's been and players like playing with them. [LNB]'In terms of that, he is unique and can play a big part for your team. He can do a great job. But Peter can fill that role just as well. In terms of replacing Emile on Wednesday, Peter is up to doing that job to a high standard as well.' [LNB]Heskey is likely to be ruled out of Villa's clash with Manchester United on Sunday after limping off against Slovakia minutes after scoring the first goal in England's 4-0 win. [LNB]Barry said: 'It was great for Emile to get a goal but it is disappointing for Villa as well as England that he got injured. [LNB]'I think we will miss him at Villa for at least one game and, at this stage of the season, they are all vital.' [LNB] Lampard backs snubbed Owen to prove Capello wrong and win England recallI need to be playing Champions League football, says England's BarryWheeling and dealing: Spurs boss Harry targets Young and Santa CruzAgbonlahor will end his drought and fire Villa to glory, insists Luke YoungASTON VILLA FC
