Laursen retirement reminds Aston Villa's Barry of savouring every playing moment
May 19 2009 by Mathew Kendrick, Birmingham Post
Gareth Barry has revealed how Martin Laursen’s retirement will make him savour every last moment of his own Aston Villa career.
Barry could follow Laursen out of the Villa Park exit door after Sunday’s final Premier League game of the season against Newcastle United.
Speculation is rife that Barry, who expressed his desire to leave Villa for Liverpool last summer, could depart if the Reds return with an offer.
With the loss of Laursen leaving a void in the centre of defence Barry’s potential departure could do likewise to the midfield. However, Barry, stand-in skipper, reckons the retirement of club captain Laursen should make players treat every game as if it were their last. “It is devastating news for Martin and for the club,” said Barry, who passed on his personal regards to Laursen during a private exchange last Friday.
“He has performed magnificently, not only this season but in previous ones too. He has been really immense.
“I had a quiet word with him just before he announced his decision on Friday.
