Paul Gascoigne believes Joey Barton can emerge to become a Newcastle United hero.

And Gazza has also applauded Barton's approach to life after the Scouse midfielder stated he would prove himself with Newcastle before even thinking about a recall to the England set-up.

Gascoigne told the Evening Chronicle: "He has come on a lot in the last few years and I know he has been working hard in the gym to make his comeback from injury.

"Joey has a good future ahead of him, but he knows that to get picked for England it is all about his club form.

"I think he can do well though.

"And when that happens there will be lots of opportunities in the midfield for England, because spaces are always opening up.

"Hopefully his time will come when it comes to England selection."

And former Spurs and Lazio favourite Gascoigne added: "Joey's a good player - we all saw that at Manchester City. He gets goals and he gets forward, but he works hard in midfield as well and gets the tackles in too.

"He's a bit like Lee Bowyer in that respect.

"Newcastle have plenty of midfielders to pick from, and I do like Nicky Butt as well, but hopefully Joey will be making a contribution soon."