Barry: Too much at stake

Gareth Barry admits Manchester City's 0-0 draw at home to Liverpool was a game neither of the UEFA Champions League hopefuls wanted to lose.

Sunday's showdown at the City of Manchester Stadium was a wretched affair, with the only notable highlight being Pepe Reina's full-stretch save from Emmanuel Adebayor in the second half.

The stalemate allowed Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth position after their victory at Wigan Athletic, but only one point separates the four contenders for the final Champions League place.

Barry concedes City were disappointed not to win the game, but appeared satisfied to take a point from the encounter given what was at stake.

"It was one of those games with no real chances," the midfielder told the club's official website. "There was a lot at stake and you could tell. We are slightly disappointed not to win as the home team.

"But anyone watching the game would sense that neither team wanted to lose. There was so much to lose if the other team got three points. It was very tactical out there.

"Shay Given only had one shot to save, and Pepe Reina only had the one shot from Emmanuel Adebayor. It was just so tight, because nobody on that pitch wanted to lose the game.

"You have to show Liverpool respect. They are not having as good a season as they would like, but they are still a hard team to beat. We will hopefully be able to build on a solid point."

Barry also confirmed that he is feeling fine after taking a late kick on the ankle from Javier Mascherano, who was fortunate not to receive a second yellow card after referee Peter Walton failed to award a free-kick.

Barry added: "I was facing the other way, so I didn't even see who it was. It was just a kick, it's nothing. I'm fine."

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.