Gerrard keen on Barry purchase

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard gave his full and glowing support to the purchase of Aston Villa midfielder Garth Barry. The two linked up well for Gerrard’s goal against the USA this past weekend in what could be good signs for a midfield partnership at club level as well.

“Gareth Barry is someone who will improve Liverpool. We can’t be disrespectful to Villa. He is still their player and we will see what happens,” said Gerrard.

Towards the end of the season Rafa Benitez made a bid for Barry. Villa manager Martin O’Neill did not take kindly to the distraction it proved to be for his captain and club, and made it quite clear he would not tolerate such premature talks.

Gerrard continued, “Naturally, they are going to try and keep hold of him, and rightly so because he is one of their star men. He has been a fantastic servant for them over many years.

“But, from a biased point of view, I want Gareth Barry to become a Liverpool player.

“I know all about Gareth, I am good friends with him off the pitch and I am desperate for us to sign him.

“He is a good player. But I want Liverpool to be as strong as possible and Gareth Barry will certainly make us stronger.

“You talk about improving the team, the starting eleven and the squad, and Gareth will certainly help Liverpool to become a better team.

“It is easy to play with good players. I’ve been asked a lot of questions this season about Fernando Torres and the simple answer is ‘it’s easier playing with quality players’ – and Gareth comes into that category.”

Knowing full well what it’s like to consider leaving the club you captain, Gerrard added, “I am sure Gareth will find it hard to leave Villa. He has been fantastic for them but, in football, sometimes opportunities come along where you can better your career.

“I think Gareth is 27 now and he needs to play Champions League football. In my opinion, he needs that now.

“I’ve enjoyed playing with him for England.

“He is quite an easy player to play with.

“He keeps it simple, he is easy to read and I certainly enjoy playing with him because I’ve got a good relationship on and off the pitch.”

Barry is expected to captain the English squad against Trinidad and Tobago as Fabio Capello continues to rotate the armband.

Source: Liverpool Daily Post