Barry to stay at Villa

Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry will stay at the Premier League club for the immediate future according to his agent.

Barry had been a transfer target for Liverpool since the end of last season and the England international was keen to move to Anfield, but Villa boss Martin O'Neill refused to sell him for less than 18 million pounds (22.5 million euros).

The 27-year-old was disciplined by Villa after criticising O'Neill's handling of the saga.

But Barry has since been welcomed back into the fold and his agent, Alex Black, has confirmed that he will not be on the move during the current transfer window.

Black admitted that Barry made the decision to stay at Villa Park a fortnight ago and talks over any new deal will now not take place until the end of the season.

In a statement released to Sky Sports News, Black said: “After much speculation I can confirm that Gareth Barry will not leave Aston Villa before the transfer window closes.

“Gareth made the decision to stay two weeks ago and informed Aston Villa of his intentions.

“During this time discussions have taken place to decide the best way forward for all parties.

“Any talks regarding potential new contracts at Aston Villa will not take place until the end of the season.

“Gareth wants to concentrate on playing on the best of his ability for Aston Villa, and we hope this draws a line under the matter.”