Big Sam hints at Barton bow

Magpies midfielder could make debut against Spurs

By James Pearson   Last updated: 19th October 2007

Joey Barton

Barton: Close to fitness

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Sam Allardyce has hinted Joey Barton could make his Newcastle United debut against Tottenham on Monday.

A pre-season broken foot has delayed Barton's Magpies bow following his move from Manchester City.

Barton has been "pestering" Newcastle's medical staff in order to speed up his recovery and Allardyce cannot fault the midfielder's commitment.

"He is almost a nuisance, but the right sort of nuisance, if you see what I mean," explained Allardyce.

"He is training 24/7 and he is always bothering and pestering the staff about what else he can do to maintain his fitness and improve his chances of coming back as quickly as he can.

"He is actually so into getting back into football that he persists in badgering the staff."

Club focus

Although Barton is keen to build on his one cap for England, the 25-year-old knows he must be playing well at club level before being considered for his country.

"There never has been and never will be an England-only player," he continued.

"You have to play club football and if I do well for Newcastle then there's a very good chance I will wear those Three Lions again.

"It's the domino effect. If you push one door open, another one falls open - and the door I am trying to push open now is playing good football for Newcastle.

"That is what I was bought for and that is what I'm paid good money to do."