Barry has earned the plaudits for his excellent displays in the centre of midfield against Israel and Russia after being handed his chance by England coach Steve McClaren.

It is a stark contrast to the days when Eriksson was national coach and did not start Barry once during his five-and-a-half-year reign.

But O'Neill believes that will be no additional incentive to the 26-year-old as Villa look to prove their win over Chelsea a fortnight ago was not a fluke.

O'Neill said: "Does Barry have an extra point to prove to Eriksson? I don't honestly think that comes into his thoughts one iota.

"England have had - and have got now - a lot of quality midfield players. Steve Gerrard is a great player. Frank Lampard is a wonderful player.

"Gareth is just delighted with the way things have gone recently for him. The last fortnight has been fantastic for him. He has played splendidly in the two games and given himself a massive boost of confidence.

"I don't think he misplaced a pass in the two games. He has given the manager something to think about. A fortnight ago, he wasn't in that position and now he is. That's great for him."

In typical fashion, Barry is reluctant to attack Eriksson for giving him limited opportunities and even claims the attacks on him towards the end of his England reign were harsh.

He said: "Sven took a lot of criticism towards the end with England and probably, looking at his record, it was little bit harsh.

"Now he's gone into Man City, bought a lot of players and they've started the season very well, although they lost their last couple. He's bought well and they've got a lot of good individuals.

"But we're going into the game looking for a third straight league win. If we're going to do well this season we've got to be going to places like Manchester City, performing and getting results.

"They've had a steady start, the same as us, but after the Chelsea win there will be players in our squad going into Sunday's game with a lot of confidence."

Barry is now putting all thoughts of England on the back-burner.

He said: "It's been a good week for me, but those two games against Russia and Israel are over now, and I'm concentrating on getting another victory for my club.

"As soon as I got home I realised it's back to important business for Villa and my focus has got to be on trying to get three points at Manchester City."