Aston Villa Have Belief as Gareth Barry Sets Sights on Silverware

Currently seven points clear in the top four this season, it's clear Aston Villa are flying high in the Premier League.

Such has been their success this season they've been considered as contenders for the EPL title, whilst also still in contention for the FA Cup and UEFA Cup trophies.

A lot of Villa's success this season has been down to having that winning mentality, and it's clear they've still got it, as their vice-captain Gareth Barry, despite conceding his side are inexperienced, is tipping his side to claim silverware this campaign.

He told Skysports: "The players in the squad, me included, have not been used to pressure games late in the season,"

"Aston Villa in recent years have not been challenging for the league so it is a big ask.

"The big question is, can we continue? But the confidence is there.

"To prove ourselves as a team we have to win a trophy.

"You always go into every season trying to win something and this season is working out nicely for us."

When Villa fans, and the majority of the nation, only really expect Villa to break into the top four this season, for Barry to be talking about winning trophies to "prove ourselves" really does show the ambition this club has at the moment.

There seems to be a belief at Villa that for this campaign to be a success, they need to win some silverware.

They have the players, the manager, and most importantly the belief, so surely this season more than ever Aston Villa have the chance to win their first major trophy in 27 years.

Of course, success on the pitch is not only due to the players, and in Martin O'Neill, Aston Villa have one of the best managers in the game who can lead them forward and onto bigger and better things.

Barry praised O'Neill, saying he is integral in creating such a positive atmosphere and belief at the club.

The midfielder said: "I am confident that we can achieve something. There is a great belief in the side and that comes from Martin O'Neill.

"He gives the players a lot of respect and makes us believe we can go out and beat anyone on the day."

And today (Sunday), Villa travel to Goodison Park to take on another high-flying team, sixth placed Everton in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

With key strikers Emile Heskey and John Carew back in the squad, Aston Villa will have the players they need to beat Everton.

In Martin O'Neill they have the manager who can help them beat Everton.

And judging by comments made by Barry, and from others about the Villa, it appears there is that belief that on the day, Villa can "go out and beat anyone."