There is a list on Wikipedia of a group of players who have managed to pick up less than five caps for England. It’s an extensive list that includes such names as Brian Clough, Steve Bould and Tim Sherwood to name a few. But one of the most surprising names on the list, mostly because of his starring role for Wimbledon and Newcastle in the 90’s is Warren Barton. Despite his obvious talents, the former wingback like many others was a victim of bad timing and managerial preferences that ultimately restricted him from representing his country more than the three times that he did. Was it not for Lee Dixon and Gary Neville and a favouritism towards the traditional fullback at international level, Barton would have won many more caps.
When i caught up with Barton recently via an Instagram Live chat, he explained that whilst he is obviously disappointed not to have represented England more, he understood the situation and supported the decision made which is a true testament of the man he is. We talked in length about his career which started with rejection at Leyton Orient to then proving himself at Maidstone and Wimbledon before becoming England’s most expensive defender for a while when he transferred to Kevin Keegan’s Newcastle and joined ” The Entertainers”. Now taking all he learned throughout his career and applying it in his coaching role in sunny California, Barton is giving back to the next generation who all dream about following his career which lead him to one of the biggest challenges of them all: the English Premier League. Enjoy!
Warren is now the Technical Director and Coach at Del Mar Carmel Valley Sharks in San Diego, California as well as an analyst for Fox Sports.
Follow Warren on his official Instagram account.
Share your thoughts now and follow us now on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
Back Of The Net 