Liverpool are said to be monitoring Gareth Barry's situation at Villa Park after the defender publicly admitted he is not happy there.
The 21-year-old England Under 21 captain is one of Gerard Houllier's favourite players in the Premiership, one that he has admitted to previously wanting to sign in an ideal world.
His problem at Villa is that he is starting to become tagged a utility player because he's often played out of position in midfield despite the fact that he is an outstanding defender.
"The last thing I want to be classed as is a utility player," said Barry. "If you are pushed about, sooner or later you can find yourself left out of the team playing nowhere.
"Since Villa changed to four at the back from five, I've been pushed from left-back to left midfield."
Barry is demanding talks with Villa boss Graham Taylor so his situation will be worth watching over the coming months.
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