Gareth Barry not thinking about retirement
West Brom midfielder Gareth Barry says he is not thinking about retirement anytime soon.
Speaking to the BBC, as reported by ESPN, Barry admits that he will play on for as long as possible.
The English midfielder equalled Ryan Giggs’ Premier League record of the most league appearances against West Ham on Saturday.
Barry has now played in 632 games in the Premier League. The former Manchester City and Everton man will break the record against Arsenal if he features against the Gunners.
Despite being 36 years of age, Barry is not thinking about hanging up his boots just yet.
I hope so. I’ve spoken to a lot of my old friends who have retired and no-one has said: ‘What are you doing still playing?’ Everyone said: ‘Play as long as possible.’ You stop when you stop enjoying it and I’ll know when I’ve had enough and can’t keep up with the boys.
Barry admits that the reality of his achievements won’t sink in until he does eventually retire.
It’s a huge number when you think about it. It’s gone so quickly, I’ve been lucky to keep fit through the years. It won’t be until you look back and have hung your boots up when you realise how big a number it is.
The midfielder joined West Brom in the summer from Everton on an initial one-year deal.