Barry: Staying with Villa

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Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry has pledged his immediate future to the Midlands club.

The England international has been a transfer target for Premier League rivals Liverpool since the end of last season, but the two clubs were unable to agree on a fee.

Barry was disciplined by Villa earlier in the summer after criticising manager Martin O'Neill's handling of the saga, and made it clear he wanted to move to Anfield.

But the talented midfielder has since been welcomed back into the fold and his agent, Alex Black, has confirmed that he will not be on the move during the current transfer window.

Black admitted that Barry made the decision to stay at Villa Park a fortnight ago, and talks over any new deal will now not take place until the end of the season.

Concentrate

In a statement released to Sky Sports News, Black said: "After much speculation I can confirm that Gareth Barry will not leave Aston Villa before the transfer window closes.

"Gareth made the 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 potential new contracts at Aston Villa will not take place until the end of the season.

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