Barry comments cost Berger May 07 2008
Patrik Berger has played his last game for Aston Villa after manager Martin O'Neill came out fighting in his battle to keep Gareth Barry.
The veteran Czech midfielder has incurred the wrath of O'Neill after he told Villa team-mate Barry to move to Liverpool if he gets the chance in the summer.
Berger said it was "the opportunity of a lifetime. Liverpool don't come after you every year" and that "if I was in Gareth's position I would go there tomorrow".
The comments irked O'Neill and he has subsequently spoken to Berger, who was expected to leave in the summer having made only eight Premier League starts in three seasons, and indicated he does not have a future at Villa Park.
"I was really disappointed and surprised that Patrik, with all his experience of dealing with the press, would make such an inappropriate comment," the Ulsterman told the club's official website.
"The sad aspect of it is that we are paying Patrik's wages for him to recommend one of our players to another football club. It's ludicrous.
"I think Pat realises that now and he's apologised. He said he didn't mean a great deal of harm but the harm has been done and he won't be playing any part in proceedings from here on in."
O'Neill confirmed last week that an offer had been received from the Reds for Barry but admitted he was keen to keep hold of the England international.