Gareth Barry admits that four years in the international wilderness made him determined to earn a recall.
Villa midfielder spurred on by international snub
Gareth Barry admits that four years in the international wilderness made him all the more determined to earn a recall.
The Aston Villa midfielder first broke into the England squad in 2000 and was part of Kevin Keegan's squad that competed at the European Championship that year.
However, when Sven Goran Eriksson took the reins in 2001 Barry found himself frozen out, despite remaining a consistent performer at club level.
He was called upon once again during Steve McClaren's ill-fated tenure, competing for a starting berth alongside the likes of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, and has remained a regular fixture in the fold under current coach Fabio Capello.
He concedes that there were times when he feared his international career may be over, but always maintained faith in his ability to do a job if called upon.
The 27-year-old said: "You never take anything for granted in football but I've featured in every game since the new manager took over and it's nice to be involved like that.
Setback
"Going four years without a cap, you realise you have to take your chances when they come along.
"I was still reasonably young (when not being selected) and realised I still had quite a few years ahead of me but, when you don't get called up, you start thinking negatively.
"I must admit that was sometimes the case. When you burst onto the scene at such a young age (19) a lot is expected of you. Then there was a massive gap really."
Barry added: "I had a couple of caps here and there without really forcing myself in. The four years without an appearance for England was a big setback for myself.
"I am just glad my international career is up and running again.
"Steve McClaren first gave me the chance and I've been happy to feature under Mr Capello as well. It's been stop-start over the years but I've relished the opportunities I've been given this last 15 months."
