Barry joins elite company with 600th Premier League appearance

Gareth Barry is now breathing rarefied air, as the English midfielder became just the third player in Premier League history to make 600 appearances when he started in Everton's clash against Middlesbrough on Saturday.

In joining the exclusive club, the former Aston Villa and Manchester City stalwart closes the gap on Frank Lampard (609 appearances) and all-time leader Ryan Giggs (632 appearances).

Barry, 35, began his professional career with Villa, spending 11 years in Birmingham before making the switch to Manchester City in 2009.

The Citizens made a point to congratulate their former midfielder on his impressive accomplishment.

At Goodison Park since 2013 - he initially moved on loan before clinching a permanent switch - the veteran has been a consistent presence in the centre of the park for the Toffees.

Fittingly, Barry marked Saturday's occasion with a goal, slotting home a left-footed effort in the opening half.