Barry admits captaincy dream
30 May 2008 - 08:20:44
Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry has admitted it would be 'a dream' should he be handed the captain's armband for England's friendly meeting with Trinidad & Tobago.
The Villa skipper has been tipped to follow the likes of John Terry, Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand and lead the national team following head coach Fabio Capello's decision to rotate the captaincy until the 2010 World Cup qualifiers begin in September.
Barry could be handed the armband for Sunday's game against Trinidad & Tobago and has admitted his delight at the prospect.
The 27-year-old midfielder, who has been linked with a £10million move to Liverpool this summer, was only recalled to the international picture by former manager Steve McClaren last year following a period in the wilderness.
"It is everyone's dream to captain their country," he admitted.
"As of yet, I'll take it all with a pinch of salt as nothing has been mentioned to me.
"There have been a few phone calls and a few things in the media but it is everyone's dream if it does happen.
"Even this season, the England form has been a great turnaround for me and it would cap it all if I was made captain.
"I had four or five years in the wilderness and then to feature in every game this season is a big turnaround in itself."
Meanwhile, Barry claims he is not distracted by continued speculation suggesting he will be a Liverpool player next season.
"These two games were always in my mind and, until they are out of the way, they are all that is going to be on my mind," he continued.
"When will I think about my personal future? Once these games are finished. That has always been the plan.
"I've had one meeting with (manager) Martin O'Neill and (owner) Randy Lerner and we all put our thoughts across the table and I am sure we will be speaking again.
"It will be unfair to make too many comments now."