Gareth Barry will make his own mind up says Aston Villa star

May 29 2009 By Mat Kendrick

STILIYAN Petrov has called on Villa to give midfield partner Gareth Barry breathing space over the summer to reach the right decision about his future.

Petrov has spoken repeatedly about his wish for his centre-of-the-park colleague to resist a move to a big four club and remain at Villa Park.

But the Bulgarian international believes Barry needs time to ponder what is best for his family rather than being rushed into making his mind up.

Villa are braced for renewed interest from Liverpool and other clubs and manager Martin O’Neill admits there have already been informal approaches.

However, Barry is expected to wait until after England’s World Cup qualifier double header against Kazakhstan and Andorra next month before considering his next move.

“I have said before how important Gareth is to this club,” said Petrov, who recently agreed a new four-year contract to stay at Villa.

“We should give him time to enjoy things because he had a hard time last summer.

“What he did to come back and make the fans happy again was great.

“There should be no pressure put on him and he will make the decision in his own time.”

Petrov was glad Villa ended the Premier League campaign on a high with last Sunday’s 1-0 victory over relegated Newcastle at Villa Park.