THe midfielder has been fast tracked by Nigel Worthington into the senior squad. Barton has represented Northern Ireland at under 19 level and now the 20 year old is in the squad to face Italy and the Faroe Islands next month.
This will put an even bigger spotlight ont he youngster in his first full season with the Whites. Rumours have been circulating over a move to the Premier League and an international debut will only increase his value.