Martin O'Neill has hit back at claims by Gareth Barry that Liverpool want him more than Villa but is prepared to let him go for £18m.O'Neill has conceded defeat in his battle to keep the 27-year-old England midfielder but will ensure he does not leave on the cheap and Rafa Benitez will have to find the full asking price of £18m for the player, having previously offered just £13m.
O'Neill told the Sun: "The chairman and I were surprised at Gareth's comments. Contrary to what he said, we desperately wanted to keep him - and he knows that.
"But if Liverpool meet our valuation, Gareth will get his expressed wish to leave. Until then, he remains an Aston Villa player."
