Barry set for England woe
Gareth Barry is braced for England Euro 2008 heartache for the second time in a week – but has been backed to grab his chance if it comes along. Gareth Barry is braced for England Euro 2008 heartache for the second time in a week – but has been backed to grab his chance if it comes along. The Villa captain was axed then dramatically recalled by England coach Steve McClaren for tomorrow's must-win qualifier in Israel after injury to right-back Gary Neville. Ashley Cole is suspended and Wayne Bridge has undergone a cartilage operation. But despite the loss of two left-backs, Barry is set for disappointment as McClaren looks certain to start with either Phil Neville or Jamie Carragher in the role. Read the full story in the Express & Star.
The Villa captain was axed then dramatically recalled by England coach Steve McClaren for tomorrow's must-win qualifier in Israel after injury to right-back Gary Neville.
Ashley Cole is suspended and Wayne Bridge has undergone a cartilage operation.
But despite the loss of two left-backs, Barry is set for disappointment as McClaren looks certain to start with either Phil Neville or Jamie Carragher in the role.
Despite the probable setback, Barry has been backed by his Villa manager Martin O'Neill to show his worth in training – especially with another chance when England play Andorra on Wednesday.
"When you get called for your country – whether it's a late call or whether it's because somebody has been injured – I don't think it should make a difference," said O'Neill.
"He'll have been initially disappointed to have missed out, but I think this should make up for the disappointment and I still think this shows the manager still sees him as part of the plans.
"To be remotely close to selection in that group of players is good news for anybody.
"It's great he's back involved and that should give him a big boost. He shouldn't think he's second choice or anything like that.
"Some players have come into international games in the same circumstances and they've been brilliant. So I wouldn't even consider that at all if I were him.
"Gareth is strong enough to not be distracted by that. If he gets on in either game, I hope he does well."
Villa midfielder Steven Davis lines up for Northern Ireland against Leichtenstein aiming to impress so he can win back his club place.
"In Steven Davis's case it's his second full season after having done so well before," said O'Neill. "Last Sunday's game was the first time he's been out of the 16 all season."