O'Neill blasts Benitez over Barry claims

Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill has launched a scathing attack against Liverpool counterpart Rafael Benitez for stating “prolonged discussions” had taken place between the pair over the possible move of skipper Gareth Barry to the Reds.

O’Neill insists the only contact regarding England midfielder Barry had been two phone calls made to him by Benitez – the first three weeks ago and the second last Friday.