Barton was called up to the national squad after playing less than ten league games for North End. THe 20 year old had previously played for Northern Ireland at under 19 level through his grandparents who were born in Northern Ireland.
The youngster has decided to withdraw as he feels there is still an opportunity that he could play for England in the future. Barton has not featured at under 21 level for either country and so can decide which country he wants to play for but once committed there is no turning back.