Barry presence no problem - O'Neill

06 October 2009 07:20
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill insisted his players had not adopted a different approach to their 1-1 draw with Manchester City because of the presence of Gareth Barry. The former Villa midfielder returned to the club for the first time with his new side and was given a mixed reception by the Villa Park faithful. But O'Neill was keen to play down the England man's influence. He said: "Were we galvanised by Barry? I do not think that at all. My view was we had an important game to play and Gareth is part of the opposition now. "It would have been quite strange for him coming back here. The players have a great respect for him and so do I." O'Neill added: "I did not want half-time to come because we were so strong at that stage of proceedings. In the end I was disappointed with the result but not the performance."

Source: Eurosport