Barry has nothing to prove - O'Neill - Sport in brief

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Barry has earned the plaudits for his excellent displays in the centre of midfield against Israel and Russia after being handed his chance by England coach Steve McClaren - a stark contrast to the days when Eriksson was national coach and did not start Barry once in five-and-a-half-years.

But O'Neill believes that will be no additional incentive to the 26-year-old as Villa look to prove their win over Chelsea a fortnight ago was not a fluke, and said: "Does Barry have an extra point to prove to Eriksson? I don't honestly think that comes into his thoughts one iota."

He added: "England have had - and have got now - a lot of quality midfield players. Steve Gerrard is a great player. Frank Lampard is a wonderful player.

"Gareth is just delighted with the way things have gone recently for him. The last fortnight has been fantastic for him. He has played splendidly in the two games and given himself a massive boost of confidence.

"I don't think he misplaced a pass in the two games. He has given the manager something to think about. A fortnight ago, he wasn't in that position and now he is. That's great for him."