Didi Hamann likes what he sees from fellow midfielder Joey Barton.
The German international has linked up with Barton in several pre-season friendlies, and he thinks that his team-mate’s impressive form can take him to a new level this season.
“You never stop learning at this game but he has got to a stage now where he has got to decide where he wants to go with his career,” says Didi.
“He has to decide whether he wants to push himself to become one of the top midfielders in England one day or not. Until four weeks ago I didn’t know him but I knew he has always been a terrific player.
“What I have seen of him so far he is behaving and playing like a mature player and I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be an England player by the end of this season. He has definitely got the ability, the power, the desire and the will to become top class.
“He has done really well and I have been impressed with him on the training ground and in matches.”
