Gareth Barry's Mark Delaney Delight

Gareth Barry is delighted that Mark Delaney has been given a two month extension to his contact and that the Wales international right back will be with the claret and blues on their tour or America/Canada.

Barry told the official site:

'It is amazing what Mark has managed to do, to give himself a great chance of being fit again after a long absence. No-one likes seeing a fellow professional out, and it was especially depressing to see someone like Mark struggle last season. But it says everything about him, both as a professional and a person, that he can work throughout the winter months and then alone for much of the summer to put himself in this great position. To have him in America will be a big boost to the rest of the dressing room.'

He also says Delaney is good for the squad because he is one of the more vocal amongst them adding:

'He is Villa through and through and it is good that he will be around for some of the younger players to turn to. In may ways, having missed last season, it will be like having a new player at the club.'

Must admit, if not for his injuries, Delaney would have made a great captain for Villa, certainly one of our most full bloodied players, hence he picked up so many knocks. If we could get him back and fit, there aren't many better right-backs in the country, are there?