The midfielder had been the subject of interest from Liverpool, but a statement on Villa's official website read: "This evening, Aston Villa can announce that Gareth Barry will be staying with the club following the interest from Liverpool over recent months.

"During discussions in the past few days, a final deadline to conclude this episode was set that all parties were aware of and agreed to. This deadline has now passed and so Gareth will remain with Villa."

best performers

Barry will now continue his pre-season preparations as Villa get ready for a UEFA Cup second qualifying round match and the kick-off to the Barclays Premier League season next month.

The news will be a huge boost to Villa manager Martin O'Neill, with Barry one of the club's best performers last season.

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