City's first signing of the summer of 2009, Gareth cost £12million from Aston Villa and proved a consistent and ultra-reliable performer in midfield, barely missing a game but picking up a rare injury in the penultimate match to put his World Cup in jeopardy. 

City beat off the attentions of Liverpool to land the left-footed England star who ended a dozen years in the Midlands when he signed a five-year contract.

Gareth’s first club was close to his Hastings home at Brighton and Hove Albion though he didn’t play a senior game for them before moving to Villa Park. He made his debut for them in May 1998 as a central defender. He also featured at left back before moving into midfield.

A fantastic servant for the Midlands club he clocked up his 400th appearance in the 2008/09 season and by the time he left had reached 440 to be seventh on the all-time list.

During his time at Villa he has also become a regular England international having featured under every manager from Kevin Keegan onwards and such was Fabio Capello's high regard for him that he gave him every opportunity to be fit enough to make the squad for South Africa 2010.

Gareth Barry was named captain against England v Ghana for the match on March 29th 2011.

Gareth Barry's Gallery

Gareth Barry - Adventure Farm

Gareth visits The Adventure Farm with Shaun Wright-Phillips which resulted in a face full of paint for the England International.

Gareth Barry - US Tour interview

Gareth tells us his most, and least, favourite part of pre-season and talks about the season ahead.

Gareth Barry - FA Cup Reaction

Gareth gives us his reaction on winning the FA Cup.