Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill has admitted that his only hope of keeping skipper Gareth Barry is guiding the Midlands club into the Champions League.
The midfielder became embroiled in a long-running transfer saga involving Liverpool last year, however the proposed deal fell through after the two clubs failed to agree a fee for the midfielder.
His decision has been justified by Villa's fine showing in the Premier League this term, with a top four finish well within reach.
O'Neill hopes the club's progression will persuade the 27-year-old to remain at Villa Park, but claims that should Barry decide to move on in the summer, he wouldn’t stand in his way.
O’Neill told News of the World: "Gareth is here until the end of the season. He was true to his word that he would stay in January.
"If we keep the momentum going, who knows? But if we don't qualify for Europe this season then things will be in the balance.
"Having given this season, I don’t think anyone would begrudge him the opportunity to move."
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The midfielder became embroiled in a long-running transfer saga involving Liverpool last year, however the proposed deal fell through after the two clubs failed to agree a fee for the midfielder.
His decision has been justified by Villa's fine showing in the Premier League this term, with a top four finish well within reach.
O'Neill hopes the club's progression will persuade the 27-year-old to remain at Villa Park, but claims that should Barry decide to move on in the summer, he wouldn’t stand in his way.
O’Neill told News of the World: "Gareth is here until the end of the season. He was true to his word that he would stay in January.
"If we keep the momentum going, who knows? But if we don't qualify for Europe this season then things will be in the balance.
"Having given this season, I don’t think anyone would begrudge him the opportunity to move."
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