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Barry Thanks The Villa Faithful

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Gareth Barry says he ‘never gave up hope’ of gaining an England re-call and has thanked the fans for the faith they have showed in him.

In an interview on Villa World, he said:

‘I’m absolutely delighted and it just goes to show you can’t give up with things like this. I’ve always said I’d keep up my hopes, keep playing well and hopefully the chance would come. The fans have kept faith, the manager has spoken highly about my chances of playing for England and I’m thankful to everyone who’s backed me. Now I have to keep doing well for Villa. That’s what it’s all about, you get called up for England on the strength of your club performances.’

‘When you have been overlooked for so long and you’re waiting for your chance, it’s important you keep your head up and keep playing as well as you can at club level. That’s what I’ve tried to do. I’m delighted for the fans as well. At every game they’re singing my name for England and that means a lot. The website have backed me, even the local press have called for me to play for England for a long time, so I’m thankful to everyone in the area – especially the fans.’

He found out today via a phone call between Martin O’Neill and Steve McClaren. ‘As soon as the gaffer called me in, I had a feeling that might be it. Obviously I was delighted when it was the England manager on the other end of the phone and it was a good moment for me.’

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