Gareth Barry sympathises with want-away Aston Villa star Emile Heskey

Oct 13 2009 by Mathew Kendrick, Birmingham Mail

Aston Villa's fallen hero Gareth Barry has waded into Emile Heskey’s club versus country controversy by sympathising with his England team-mate’s plight.

Heskey revealed yesterday that he may be forced to seek a move away from Villa in January to achieve his World Cup ambitions with Fabio Capello’s team.

The former Blues striker fears he will be axed from the Three Lions squad if he fails to get enough first team football under Martin O’Neill.

Heskey has been forced to settle for a place on the Villa substitutes bench for most of the season so far behind Gabby Agbonlahor and John Carew.

And Barry, who played alongside Heskey for half a season at Villa Park, insists he can understand the forward’s concerns ahead of South Africa 2010.

“The World Cup is in the back of everyone’s mind so I can understand where Emile is coming from,” said the Manchester City midfielder.

“It’s not just Emile, it’s that time of year when you want to be playing regularly.

“He has his place in the England team at the moment and won’t want anything to change that.

“Playing regularly for your club can help you cement a place in the England squad.

“He’s struck a great partnership with Wayne Rooney in the qualifying campaign.

“His work-rate and the way he plays for the team is second to none.

“Wayne and the other attacking midfielders have thrived playing off him.

“He’s a big part of the England team.”