Barton: ‘Cresswell deserves England call-up’

Joey Barton has told BBC 5Live listeners on Monday that he has been impressed with West Ham defender Aaron Cresswell and he deserves an England call up in the near future.

“I like Cresswell at West Ham, I think he has done really well. I think he has come on leaps and bounds, and probably deserves an England call-up at some stage.”

Barton nearly joined West Ham in the summer but instead opted to join Burnley after the Hammers cooled their interest after a fan and alleged player revolt. The 32 year old had already completed his medical and was due to train with the club after his contract expired at Queens Park Rangers.

At the time Barton published a video to West Ham fans saying:

“I’d just like to thank the West Ham fans who sent me a lot of kind messages on social media and especially on Twitter, ‘I felt West Ham as a football club would have been a good fit for me. It’s a ground that I’ve always enjoyed playing at with a very knowledgeable crowd, really passionate behind the football team.

‘I wish the football club all the best going forward. I think it’s an exciting time for the West Ham fans with the move to the Olympic Stadium and the exciting squad you’re building.

‘I wish you all the best in the future and no hard feelings.’