Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill will have no problem shaking hands with Liverpool counterpart Rafael Benitez despite the stormy nature of the Reds' ultimately failed attempt to land midfielder Gareth Barry.

Both managers clashed verbally on more than one occasion during the early stages of the saga that eventually saw Barry remain with the midlands club.

O'Neill said: "What is my relationship with Benitez? I don't think in the scheme of things that is wildly important.

"He has got his own things to concern himself with. He has got his own team and I've got my side here.

"I'm not every single day phoning up managers to ask how they are nor do I expect them to call me. I don't get general chats with managers.

"Will I shake hands with Benitez? I am sure that will not be a problem."