Martin O'Neill says Aston Villa can push the 'top four' all the way in the next season - even if they lose Gareth Barry.
Villa have rejected a new offer for Barry from Liverpool on Thursday as it still does not meet the Birmingham club's valuation of the player.
Barry has told O'Neill he wants to join Liverpool in order to play Champions League football and boost his international prospects but the Villa manager insists his club will not be forced into selling.
However, the Northern Irishman was adamant his club's ambitions of challenging the dominance of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool will not be diminished even if a price for Barry is ultimately agreed.
major part
"It's difficult [to break into the top four] but that's what you're in the game for. If it's without Gareth Barry, we'll still have a go."
O'Neill continued: "Gareth and I had a little chat when he got back from holiday and he has said he would fancy going to Liverpool. That's obviously a big setback to us.
"It's very frustrating. We finished sixth last year, he was a major part of that and he has been a splendid player for us for some considerable time."
