Joey Barton for England

[JackanorySFC]

The lad certainly would be a breath of fresh air in any pre/ post match interview, had time for him for years since his interview where he said too many England players just turn up, put on the tracksuit and add 20% to their next club contract.

 

He's made mistake but I think he's right that he's the best English midfielder this season (maybe 2nd to Scott Parker but not a lot to choose from). Amazing interview in the Indy today - has plenty to say about Gareth Barry, none of which I can dissagree with really?

 

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/barton-drop-teachers-pet-barry-ndash-im-englands-best-midfielder-2264160.html

[Turkish]

Most of that is spot on. Good to hear players speaking honestly and openly or a change rather than the bland crap most of them come out with. He's made mistakes in the past but i certainly dont disagree with anything he had to say in that interview, on current form he deserves a chance for England.

[alpine_saint]

First of all, this interview has killed any chance of him getting a recall.

 

Secondly, considering that once a thuggy tw*t, always a thuggy tw*t, I am not sure I would want him to get one, however talented.

 

Finally, since when has being the best fit English player for a given position and formation ever been enough to get in the England team ??? Its all about the FA and PL brands.

[saint_stevo]

He has hit the nail on the head, and Alpine if we ban thuggish ***ts then we wouldn't field an XI

[Rory]

Saw an interview with him on Inside Out about three years ago and he was the most incoherent, clueless and uneducated footballer I've come across. None of what he had to say made any sense.

[sambosa75]

My sister has been for a few nights out with him. She reckons he couldnt me a more lovely, charming bloke. Genuinely. Got the drinks in, got involved in the banter and didnt give it the big I AM at all. Admittedly this is since he has been tee total so he was drinking soft drinks. Amazing the effect alcohol can have on some people.

 

That said, he has been top class this season. I cant think of a better English midfielder on form over the season and I include Jack Wilshere in that. So he's got involved in a few punch ups whilst bevied up. Ashley Cole shot someone FFS and still gets in the England side. I'd have him in there without a doubt.

[Crab Lungs]

Before I opened the article I thought there was no way I'd agree with him.

 

Now I've read it I can say that agree with him 100%... he's only saying what many, many fans think.

 

He's just burnt his bridges completely now though, so I would imagine he's been told he'd never play for England again and thought "**** it, I'll say what I think anyway"

[sambosa75]

Before I opened the article I thought there was no way I'd agree with him.

 

Now I've read it I can say that agree with him 100%... he's only saying what many, many fans think.

 

He's just burnt his bridges completely now though, so I would imagine he's been told he'd never play for England again and thought "**** it, I'll say what I think anyway"

 

Cant really blame him. Just because he's been told he wont play doesnt stop him being a fan. I actually think its refreshing hearing a player come out and say what he thinks for a change. As you say, it's not like he's wrong!

[saint_stevo]

Gareth Barry having 40 odd England Caps is an embarrassment