LONDON // Olof Mellberg has watched Gareth Barry grow as a person and a footballer. Now he believes he has got a taste of the big time that could well result in a move to Liverpool or Arsenal. Both clubs have targeted Barry, 27, following Aston Villa's admission that they will let him go - for the right price. "I was there at the start of his career," said Mellberg, who was replaced by Barry as the Villa captain. "When I came there, he was a centre half under John Gregory. I watched him play one or two games before I came to the club and he has been everywhere in the team since then; left back, left and central midfield and he has done well in all positions.
"With the England call ups that has made a lot of him and improved him as a player, playing in these big games. That has given him a taste for more. "It's difficult for me to know what he is feeling, but he has done well for quite a few seasons," he added. Mellberg himself quit Villa this summer on a free transfer for Juventus, explaining that a new challenge and Champions League football were what he needed after six years in England. With 11 years under his belt at Villa Park, Barry is seeking the same.
Mellberg points out that Villa's ambition could be the key to keeping Barry. Martin O'Neill's side are trying to close the gap on the top four and the Swedish central defender said: "You have to see where Villa are going and if they can build on last season. That is what he would be looking at. If he does stay, and becomes part of that, then it will be good for the club." @Email:akhan@thenational.ae
