Barry eyes Euro challenge
11 Jul 2007 - 16:01:22
Aston Villa skipper Gareth Barry is aware that he and the rest of the Villa squad will have to cope with raised expectations among the club's fans next season.
The takeover of the club by Randy Lerner during last season gave manager Martin O'Neill funds to spend. The Northern Irishman has already added West Ham midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker to his squad this summer and further signings are in the pipeline.
Barry told the Birmingham Mail: "Last season was never going to be the one where something really happened.
"There were big improvements, with players such as John Carew, Ashley Young and Shaun Maloney strengthening the squad.
"There was definitely a step forward last season, but the expectations will be even more increased this season from everyone, including the fans.
"It's something the players are going to have to get used to, but hopefully there will be some good players coming in to help us.
"The expectation for us will be to challenge for Europe this season, but the players realise that and those new signings coming in will help us to try and achieve that."
