Martin O'Neill believes England boss Fabio Capello could decide the future of Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry.

With the World Cup next year, Capello favours players who are performing every week for their clubs.

Villans boss O'Neill told The Sun: "I have a really open mind on this. Gareth's new advisers have had open, proper discussions on the whole issue.

"It became a saga last summer but I don't see it reaching the stage it reached last year.

"Gareth has things to consider. It's a big year at international level next year. If at the end of the season he has a choice or two clubs, having spent 11 years here, no one would begrudge that opportunity.

"We would still try to find compensation for a quality player while he can run down the last year of his contract. But all parties know where we stand."