Gareth Barry delighted with "fantastic" landmark

Gareth Barry has admitted that he feels blessed to have played his 500th Premier League match in Everton's 3-2 victory over Newcastle United on Monday.

The England international midfielder became the 10th player to reach the milestone in the game at Goodison Park, and has hinted that there is still time for him to add considerably to his appearance tally.

"It's fantastic," he told Sky Sports News. "I'm really lucky to be able to achieve 500 games. I've stayed injury free, touch wood, this long and I want to keep going and help Everton up this league table.

"Fifteen years ago I was making my debut. Time flies, especially when you're playing Premier League football, which is what you dream of as a child, so I want to try and play as long as possible."

Barry, 33, reached the landmark by featuring three times for Everton, 365 times for Aston Villa and 132 times for Manchester City, from whom he is currently on a season-long loan at the Toffees.