Darren Moore hailed the performance of veteran midfielder Gareth Barry after his outing against Aston Villa at the weekend, as reported by the Express and Star.

The former England man has been on the fringe of the West Brom squad this season and made only his fourth start of the campaign against Dean Smith's high-flyers.

He's been kept out of the side by James Morrison, but an injury to the Baggies Scottish midfielder meant a recall for the 37-year old. Moore was delighted with the way Barry reacted and said he could be 'delighted' with his performance.

"I thought Gareth Barry came in and did superb," said the Baggies boss. "Gareth's forward passing and reading of the play and the way he drove the team on – he can be delighted with his performance."

Barry made 441 appearances for Villa during a decade-long stay in the Midlands, before spells with Manchester City and Everton. He amassed 53 caps for England during his illustrious career, but is now winding down at the Hawthorns.

He's started 32 games since joining in August 2017, but has seemingly lost none of the vision and commitment that drove him on through his impressive career.

The Verdict

Moore loves an oldie, doesn't he? West Brom have such a strong squad and yet there's not only a reliance on veterans, but they're seemingly seeking them out as new recruits as well.

Barry is different though, he's played right at the top level his entire career and with fitness and nutrition the way it is these days, he's likely to play into his forties, if he wants to.