Do we really want Barry to leave?

Gareth Barry has begun to hit form in recent seasons.

He's a versatile player, filling in at left-back, midfield and behind the strikers. He's got a cultured left foot and a lot of intelligence for a footballer.

So, do we really want him to leave?

Newcastle have been rumoured to be sniffing around and now Tottenham, who like to horde English players like they're going out of fashion (which they probably are!), have been credited with interest.

Damian has written about Tottenham's interest this morning, and a ?3.5m tag has been banded around by the Daily Mirror. I feel this is way short of Barry's valuation.

?6.5m is more likely figure for his services. He is a clever player and has developed into a quality left-sided player that a lot of people I speak to respect. Of all the Villa players, Barry is the one they always mention.

I think Steven Davis and Barry were the reasons we stayed up the season before last and those plus Milner this season.

If it weren't for Joe Cole's amazing coming of age this season as a left-sided player, Barry would probably be back in the England set-up next season.

I would like to see him stay, but if Tottenham came in with a suitable bid - they've had ?7m turned down for Downing already - then I think he'll go.

I've been reading a few Tottenham websites and they appear to be quite keen on him, particularly due to his versatility.

So let's hope Spurs keep their money to themselves because O'Leary won't player Whittingham and with only Patrik Berger left, I feel we could be in more trouble.

As usual, comments to luke@astonvilla.biz.