Stan Collymore has backed Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry's push to join Liverpool.

Collymore, a veteran of both clubs, told The Sun: "Gareth is 27 and has been at the club for 10 years.

"I defy any supporter, especially in this day and age of players hopping around clubs, to boo him. I want to see Villa in the Champions League in the next two seasons - but realistically Liverpool are already there.

"If a healthy transfer fee is agreed, I feel it would be a good move for both clubs.

"Gareth has been a great servant at Villa and has never caused the club from his time as a trainee to the present day."