Barry defends England friendlies

Gareth Barry has defended the importance of England friendlies - to give opportunities for fringe players like himself to impress head coach Steve McClaren.

Aston Villa skipper Barry ended a three-and-a-half-year exile from the England side when he played the second half of the clash with Spain at Old Trafford a fortnight ago. England are set to reduce the number of non-competitive games from 20 to 18 under the new television deal.

But Barry is adamant such matches are vital for players trying to break into the squad, saying: "The whole manner of the defeat at home to Spain, and the manager getting a lot of criticism, means a lot has been made about the role of friendlies. But friendlies are always going to be a part of international football because they are needed."

He added: "In those games, the fringe players will always get a game and the chance to impress.

"If it was constant qualification games, for the World Cup or the European Championships, you would just get the same sort of players being selected.

"But for myself and a lot of other players out there in my situation, these games are an opportunity to get a game."

Barry is hoping he impressed sufficiently to be given another opportunity by McClaren.

He said: "I'm hoping it's not the case that it was a waste of time. I don't want it to be a waste of time. He (McClaren) has seen me in training and seen me play half a game. Hopefully I've impressed.

"We'll have to wait for the next squad to see. There are injuries and suspensions so hopefully they can fall in my favour.

"It was nice to be involved again. What comes out of it, I am not sure but it was just good to be linked with England again and playing with the best players in the country. I knew everybody in there either from with the under-21s or my time before with the seniors so it wasn't a case of being nervous, I settled in really well."