By Paul Brown

Gareth Barry says Martin Laursen's retirement has made him fully appreciate the joy of playing football.

Villa's influential midfielder has revealed his "devastation" at the skipper's decision to call time on his career.

But Barry insists the colossal defender should look back at his time in claret and blue with a great deal of pride.

And the news has made Barry realise how lucky he is to be fighting fit.

He told AVTV: "It is devastating news for Martin and for the club.

"He has performed magnificently - not only this season but in previous ones too. He has been really immense.

"I had a quiet word with him just before he announced his decision on Friday. You could tell he was very emotional and very upset but I told him all the lads wished him well for the future.

"I told him he has had a great career and that he should get his feet up now and enjoy the rest of his life.

"This sort of news makes you appreciate playing football. When something like this happens, it just reinforces the need to give 100 per cent every time you step out on to that pitch. You have to respect the game because you never know when your career is going to end."