Barry signs new deal

Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry has set his sights on silverware after signing a new four-year contract.

Barry was part of a Villa side who finished sixth in the Barclaycard Premiership last season, a marked improvement on the previous campaign’s 16th place finish.

And Barry wants to turn Villa’s improved form into a trophy this season.

Barry said: “I have always felt part of the Villa family. It is strange considering I am only 23, but remember I have been here a long time and I have enjoyed every minute of it.

“It’s nice to have it all sorted now and not have to worry for the next four years. I can concentrate on my football now.

“It is a target of mine to win a trophy with Villa. The strides we made last season were brilliant – going from 16th to sixth.

“No-one really expected that but we have some really good players and the manager has shown what he can do,” Barry told the club website, www.avfc.premiumtv.co.uk.