Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry is facing a possible operation to cure a persistent groin injury.

The City star has been harbouring a niggling groin injury which has hampered his form for the Citizens.

He played his second game in a week on Saturday as the Blues were victorious over table-toppers Chelsea 2-1 at Eastlands to move up to sixth in the table.

The former Aston Villa star also managed 90 minutes midweek in their 3-0 win over Arsenal in the Carling Cup, however, the 28-year-old is in need of surgery to cure his long standing groin problem.

Barry himself is reluctant to go under the knife as he is desperate to help City seal the much coveted fourth and final UEFA Champions League spot.

However, with midfielders Nigel De Jong, Vincent Kompany and Stephen Ireland all able to deputise, City coach Mark Hughes may try to persuade Barry to have the operation and clear up the problem once and for all.

A decision is expected within the next few days.