Aston Villa Football Club News

• Nickname:The Villains
• Founded:1874
• Manager:Alex McLeish

• Ground:Villa Park
• Capacity:42,584

Barry closes Villa exit saga

27 Aug 2008 - 14:34:49

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Aston Villa's England midfielder Gareth Barry will not leave the club before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month, ending talk of a move to either Liverpool or Arsenal.

The 27-year-old had seemed certain to leave Villa Park earlier this summer, but the switch to Anfield has hit the buffers in recent weeks, while Arsenal's interest has never been firmed up.

Now Barry has decided to end any uncertainty and pledge his immediate future to the Midlands club.

His agent, Alex Black, released a statement reading: "Gareth made a 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 a potential new contract and Aston Villa will not be taking place until the end of the season.

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