It would take a wonder run of results to haul the midlands club into a position to challenge for a European spot, especially given their woeful away form which has yielded three points and three goals from 10 league matches.

But Barry insists Villa cannot throw in the towel as they begin the countdown to Saturday’s league clash with Liverpool at Anfield.

The England Under-21s captain said: “The lads were devastated in the dressing room after the game on Saturday. To lose by that margin at home was so disappointing.

“The most disappointing thing given our current league position is that the cups were so important for us this season – and to find ourselves out of both of them doesn’t leave a lot.

“But we’ve got 16 league matches left and we can’t afford to get our heads down. We’ve still got a job to do and we’ve got our pride as well.”

Barry’s own personal performance was again the only bright spark at the weekend for Villa as he strives to regain his England spot after a two-year absence from the squad.

He said: “I’ve been happy with the way things have gone personally this season and I’ll try and keep it going to get the team as many points as I can.

“I would also love to get back with England."