Ray Parlour heaped praise on West Bromwich Albion midfielder Gareth Barry and shared that he believes the 37-year-old will start against Sheffield United.
The retired Premier League player revealed that he thought experience was needed in the race for promotion from the Championship and that you wouldn’t get a more experienced player than Barry.
Parlour added that he thought the veteran would go straight back in to Darren Moore’s starting line-up after not playing the full 90 minutes against Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday.
“I think West Bromwich Albion are the ones to watch at the moment as they looked like they were going to slip out of the play-offs then they got their form back,” said Parlour on talkSPORT (Friday February 22nd, 17:35).
“They’ve got excellent players, real solid players and all, we mentioned experience as experience can be vital and you won’t get a more experienced player than Gareth Barry in that midfield.
“Y’know he wasn’t playing in the week against QPR, I’m sure in a game like tomorrow’s against Sheffield United, he’ll be straight back into that team and just in front of the back four.
“He’s a great screener in front of that back four.”
OPINION
Moore no doubt only used Barry as a substitute during the 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers in order to ensure the veteran would be fit enough to feature against Sheffield United. The 37-year-old has been a vital cog in West Brom’s machine this season and has generally impressed in his 25 outings. Just like Parlour pointed out, there are few players as experienced as Barry about and he could prove to be vital in the Championship promotion race for that reason. While Barry is still delivering the goods with the ball at his feet, his presence on the pitch on Saturday may reassure his teammates as some may get a bit nervy about facing Sheffield United. This is because they know how important the clash with the Blades could prove to be as well as them being aware what good form their opponents are in heading into this match. Chris Wilder’s side are unbeaten in their last five games and are more than capable of defeating the Baggies.