Pearce backs Barton for call

Stuart Pearce insists Joey Barton would not be a disruptive influence on the England squad.

Barton is hoping for his first call-up to the international scene when Steve McClaren announces his squad for next week's friendly with Spain at Old Trafford later today.

"Joey would not disrupt any squad," said Pearce. "On occasion he speaks his mind but I do not have a problem with that. I think over the last 18 months I have seen a general maturity in him as a player and a man."

He added: "If he is picked Joey will bring drive, energy and the ability to score a goal.

"If he is not selected then he will have to keep doing what he has been over the last few weeks and months to put more pressure on the England manager."