Man City midfielder Barry eager to regain England place
Gareth Barry is not yet ready to call time on his England career despite missing out on a place in Roy Hodgson’s squad for the World Cup qualification double-header against San Marino and Poland, the Daily Mirror has reported.
The Manchester City midfielder missed Euro 2012 because of a groin injury and later required surgery on a double hernia that meant he had to sit out the opening of the Premier League. But having returned to action for his club, Barry was left out of the latest England party for what he believes are fitness-related issues.
Barry said: “I've not spoken to the England manager, but I understand why I'm not in it. My season hasn't really got going, and I'm still getting over the injury. I'm obviously disappointed, because I want to play for my country. I'm hopeful that if I can get a run in the team, and get some games together, I will be in the next squad.”
The former Aston Villa captain also added that he has not entertained thoughts of retiring from England duty, but understands he faces a tough task to regain his place in Hodgson’s thoughts, having had to work his way back into the international set-up before.
Barry has 53 England caps to his name and made his national team bow more than a decade ago, featuring in a pre-Euro 2000 friendly and travelling to the tournament as a late replacement without featuring in a match.
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