Premier League record-holder comes out of retirement to play for 11th-tier team

Premier League all-time record appearance holder Gareth Barry has made a surprising return to football by signing for 11th-tier side Hurstpierpoint.

The former Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton and West Brom midfielder, who played an impressive 653 times in the Premier League, originally hung up his boots in August 2020. His last professional game was West Brom’s 3-2 FA Cup defeat to Newcastle United in March of that year.

Barry had a successful career before retiring, including lifting the Premier League trophy with Manchester City in 2012. He also represented England 53 times, featuring in three matches at the 2010 World Cup and even captaining the national team on several occasions.

Now, at the age of 43, Barry is set to face the challenges of the Gray Hooper Holt LLP Mid Sussex Football League. His new club, Hurstpierpoint, announced his arrival on social media, sharing a photo of the midfielder proudly holding up his new team’s shirt.

“We are beyond delighted to announce that former-England international and all-time Premier League record appearance holder, Gareth Barry, has signed for Hurstpierpoint Football Club,” the post read.

“Gareth has a long-standing association with the village through his good friend, and our Coach, Michael Standing; so it seemed an obvious move to get him involved with the football club.

“His quality in training has been unreal, so we’re all very excited to see him pull on the shirt and grace the Fairfield turf later on this season. Welcome to Hurstpierpoint, Gareth.”

Whilst Barry is now training with his new team, it’s anticipated he won’t play a significant role during the pre-season matches. However, Hurstpierpoint’s new boss and chairman, Dudley Christensen, couldnt be happier having secured his signature.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Christensen said: “He came along to training and loved us. I don’t think he’s going to be around to play every week, but he’s a great signing and he’s going to raise our profile. I’ll let him do what he wants to do.

“He can play where he likes, but I expect he’ll sit in front of the defence and be a shield. I imagine he’ll be on the teamsheet. Gareth and Michael, when you see them on the pitch they’re still both fit as butcher’s dogs.”