Gareth Barry Reacts To Our Support

Following our article last month Gareth Barry Puts Villa On The Map which was kindly passed on to the England midfielder via Phil Mepham, we've had the following from the club after they asked Gareth for his reaction to the support he has had across the Villa sites and amongst Villa fans in general:

Gareth Barry has hailed the Villa faithful for their unstinting support in his quest for a senior international recall.

With Steve McClaren set to name his squad for the Euro qualifiers against Estonia and Russia tomorrow, Barry is sure to retain his place after impressive displays against Israel and Russia last month.

The Villa skipper justified the Claret and Blue Army’s support as England revived hopes of qualifying for next summer’s finals. And the versatile 26-year-old was delighted to fly the Villa flag.

Barry said: “The fans have always been superb in backing me for an England recall. It gives me a real lift when they chant ‘Barry for England’. I know the support has been there on websites and message boards – our website and others – and it is really appreciated.'

“When I play for Villa or for England I’m representing the Villa fans and I know it makes a difference to have players in the England squad.”

Barry continued: “I’m taking nothing for granted, despite things going so well in the last two qualifiers and I know I have to keep performing well at club level. That’s what the fans deserve and that’s what I have to do. It’s the same with Ashley Young – he has to consistently produce the level of performances that got him a call-up in the first place.”

With thanks to General Charles Krulak, Phil Mepham, Geoff Coleman (editor at large of www.avfc.co.uk) and of-course, our very own Captain Marvell.

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