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General Sports News

Villa upbeat on Barry stay

Author: Rose Young
Date: 26/05/2009

Aston Villa's American owner Randy Lerner remains confident that his club will be able to retain the services of England midfielder Gareth Barry this summer.

The 28-year-old is about to enter the final year of his current contract at Villa Park, with Liverpool reported to be preparing another offer for a player they came close to signing a year ago.

However, an upbeat Lerner said: "We have discussed a new contract with Gareth.

"I don't think anyone could do better than Gareth on any level. Am I optimistic Gareth will stay? Yes, I am optimistic. It is my nature."

Right-back Habib Beye has committed his future to Newcastle United following their relegation from the Premier League on the final day of the season.

The 31-year-old Senegal international has been with the Magpies for two seasons, having moved to England from Marseille and feels responsible for his part in the club's downfall.

Newly-promoted Wolves have dismissed rumours linking them with a loan move for Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart.

The 22-year-old England international is expected to leave Eastlands this summer after losing his first-team spot to Shay Given, but Wolves insist that they are not in the bidding for Hart.

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has resigned following their failure to win a fourth successive Scottish Premier League title.

Strachan won three league crowns and three domestic cups during his four-year reign, but his position at Parkhead had been in doubt after he refused to discuss his future following the weekend draw with Hearts which effectively handed the title to Rangers.

Northampton Saints have signed former Australia lock forward Dan Vickerman on a one-year contract.

The 29-year-old is currently studying for a land economy degree at Cambridge University and will combine his duties with the Saints with his ongoing studies.

Director of rugby Jim Mallinder told the club's official website: "Going forward our squad has to have this blend of youth and experience and Dan will bring considerable know-how from his time with the Wallabies, New South Wales and the ACT Brumbies."

Meanwhile, Irish prop forward Paul Doran-Jones has joined Gloucester on a two-year contract from London Welsh.

The 24-year-old has been drafted in following Carlos Nieto's exit from Kingsholm, having also played for Leinster and Wasps during his career.

Formula One's new leading light Jenson Button is set to earn a new long-term contract with Brawn GP after winning five of the opening six races of the season.

The Englishman is currently only on a one-year deal with the team formed from the Ashes of Honda's F1 programme, but chief executive Nick Fry is eager to pen talks over an extended contract.

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