Barry: Villa players know there will be new signings in January

Barry said: “The manager knows and the squad here knows we need a few faces to come in and strengthen us up.

“The squad has been over-achieving, definitely. Our main aim was to improve and get into the top half. Everyone knew we were exceeding expectations.

“[Manchester City] was a reality check. It was big eye opener for us. We didn’t play like a team in the top five of the Premiership. We have still made a good start. If you look at the overall picture we have got to be pleased. But if we are going to strengthen in January, we need to get as many points on the board as we can now.”