Barry spurred on by past omissions

2nd December 2008

Gareth Barry has claimed his four-year omission from England's plans spurred him on to make the most of his chance under Fabio Capello.

Barry has featured in every game since Capello became Steve McClaren's successor as head coach nearly 12 months ago and made the holding midfield role his own.

It represents a massive change in fortunes from the Sven Goran Eriksson years, when the Aston Villa player, who was part of the England squad for Euro 2000 in Holland and Belgium, was frozen out despite his consistent club form.

Now Barry is an automatic choice with Capello despite competition from the likes of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard in the centre of the pitch.

The 27-year-old said: "You never take anything for granted in football but I've featured in every game since the new manager took over and it's nice to be involved like that.

"Going four years without a cap, you realise you have to take your chances when they come along."