- England
Barton comes out of international retirement
Joey Barton has made himself available to play for England again after watching their disappointing displays at the World Cup.
Barton retired from international football in May 2013 having won just a single cap - when he came on for fifteen minutes in a friendly against Spain six years earlier.
But now the midfielder, who helped Queens Park Rangers to promotion back to the Premier League last season, believes he could return to the international fold having seen the level of England's performances in Brazil.
After reviewing England's performance at the WC, I have decided renounce my international retirement.
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 14, 2014
Having seen the standard, I believe its possible. Having played at the level before I feel I am a better player now than when I was capped.
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 14, 2014
People might not know whether I'm being serious or not. Trust me, I am deadly serious. Thats all I'll say on the matter for now.
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 14, 2014
England were knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage after just two games, the first time they have exited the tournament at the earliest stage since 1958.