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I should be in England squad - Barton

ESPN staff
November 9, 2011
Joey Barton believes he is one of the most consistent midfielders in England © PA Photos
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Joey Barton claims he merits a place in the England team and believes it is the "baggage" that comes with him that has restricted his opportunities under Fabio Capello.

Barton, who joined QPR in the summer from Newcastle after falling out with the Magpies' hierarchy, has just one England cap from 2007. But despite a history of disciplinary problems, Barton believes he deserves a call-up from Capello.

"Fabio said he was going to pick the side on form when he came in, that was one of the prerequisites of getting the job," Barton told Sky Sports. "I can't think of seven English-born midfielders that over the 12 to 18 months that have played more consistently than me."

While Barton admits he is not capable of singlehandedly winning Euro 2012, he believes he can bring something different to the squad if he is picked for Capello's squad next summer.

"Obviously there are a lot of them without the baggage that is perceived to come with me. I'm not going to cry about it and I don't surmise anyone in the England set-up will. Am I the difference between winning the World Cup or the European Championships or not? I'd like to think I was but I know it's not.

"It would be great to go and it would be a great experience for me and I think I can add to it. Wayne Rooney could be the difference between England winning it and not. Joey Barton certainly wouldn't be."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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