Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill admits he would not stand in the way of a Gareth Barry departure this summer.
The midfielder became embroiled in a long-running transfer saga involving Liverpool last year, before ultimately opting to stay in the Midlands.
His decision has been justified by Villa's fine showing in the Premier League this term, with a top four finish well within reach.
O'Neill hopes the club's progression will persuade Barry to remain at Villa Park, but claims he will understand if the England international still harbours a switch elsewhere.
"Gareth is here until the end of the season. He was true to his word that he would stay in January," the Villa chief told the News of the World.
"If we keep the momentum going, who knows? But if we don't qualify for Europe this season then things will be in the balance.
"The point I accept is that having given this season, which was what I wanted in the first place, I don't think anyone would begrudge him the opportunity to move having spent that time here.
"It was this season I was asking for. If he continues to play in the fashion he is doing, he is in every bit as good a position as he was at the end of last season."
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