Barry pens long-term deal

Last updated : 29 August 2006 By Norris McWinter

The midfielder has been linked with a possible move away from Villa Park but the recent upheavals in north Birmingham have convinced him to stay. "[Manager] Martin O'Neill's arrival has played a big part in this decision," the 25-year-old said. "There has been a lot of speculation about my future, but I'm glad to get something sorted and I'm looking forward to the next four years. I definitely feel my best years are yet to come." Barry, who made a record 27 England Under-21 caps, has made more than 300 appearances in the past eight years for Villa.