Midfield ace says Aston Villa 'still believe' after Barcelona defeat

Unai Emery’s men went down 3-0 at the Nou Camp on a night when they gifted their illustrious hosts the opener and missed several good chances to score themselves.

It ended their perfect start to the competition after winning the first three matches but Barkley, who conceded Villa had not been at their best, thinks there were still positives to take.

“There's belief in that changing room that we could come here and win, and on our day we're capable of that,” he said.

“But today wasn't that day. You know we've got loads of exciting players that on our day we'll be able to win three or four-nil against big teams.

“But like I say, today wasn't the day. There’s plenty to work on.”

An error by Joao Gomes allowed Yamine Lamal to put Barcelona in front inside seven minutes and the former Wolves midfielder was then one of several players to miss the chance to equalise.

Two second half goals from Raphinha, the first of which was deflected, then put the tie out of Villa’s reach.

Barkley reckons being more ruthless in front of goal is imperative as they now begin preparing for Sunday’s trip to Manchester United, their final match before the international break.

Villa are now winless in three since beating Manchester City last month.

“We just didn't have our shooting boots on, and they created some good chances because they've got some brilliant players in their squad,” he said.

“But, going into United on the weekend, we will put this behind us. Obviously, we will analyse it, but our focus now is to put this behind us and stay positive for the weekend and try and get back to winning ways.

“Sometimes we go through ups and downs. We've got a lot of young players and a lot of new players that are adapting to the way we play, so sometimes they're just getting on board with the manager's ideas, and sometimes just not performing on a day.

“So ups and downs, but I'm sure there'll be plenty more ups and downs.”