"Gareth will not be returning to training tomorrow and he has been disciplined after giving an unauthorized interview to the News of the World," the Villa boss told the club's website on Wednesday.

Barry has made it no secret that he wants to move to Premier League rivals Liverpool this summer.

Aston Villa and O'Neill have turned down several bids to sign him as the Reds couldn't meet their asking price.

Reports have claimed that Liverpool made a final £15million offer, plus add-ons, while Villa are asking for £18million.

"There's no truth in this morning's reports and the situation remains the same," added O'Neill.