Barton: I'm the best midfielder in England

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has launched a scathing attack on England’s World Cup hopes and dismissed Gareth Barry as a “teacher’s pet”.

In an outspoken assessment of the state of the national team, the in-form Barton once again championed his own cause and in particular, pointed to Barry’s inclusion in Fabio Capello’s squad as an indication of its current malaise.