We still remember how Michael Owen told the watching public back in 2006 that he had the World Cup top of his priorities when he returned from injury, and only made a token appearance against Birmingham as sub before jetting off to Germany with England.
We also remember the outcome. Injury (again!) and Newcastle United suffered (again!).
Barton brushed aside all questions on England and says he has set his sights on getting Newcastle into Europe.
Barton - Newcastle Comes Before England
The 24-year-old midfielder could make his Magpies debut in a friendly at Hartlepool on Tuesday night following his £5.8million switch from Manchester City.
Barton: "First and foremost, it is vitally important to do well for Newcastle United.
"If England honours follow, I will be very honoured. As a professional, you always strive to play at the highest level.
"But first and foremost, it is more about playing in Europe every season with Newcastle.
"Why did I join Newcastle? It was just the sheer potential of the place, the size of the football club, the size of the stadium, the foundation, and obviously the new manager coming in.
"He was someone I had always admired from afar and someone I had always hoped to get a chance to work with.
"Thankfully, that opportunity arose and it arose at a big club. As soon as that chance presented itself, I was ready to step in and give myself a challenge.
"Only time will tell. If I can produce the form I produced at City, then there should be no problem.
"But as a professional and as a player who wants to get better and better, I want to set myself higher goals than that and I will be very disappointed if I do not reach the potential and the targets I set myself."