Former Burnley centre-forward Willie Irvine has encouraged the club to make a move for free agent Joey Barton.

The one-time England international has been without a team since he was released by Queens Park Rangers at the end of last season.

West Ham United and Nottingham Forest have previously been linked with the 32-year-old, but as yet, no agreement has been reached.

As a result, Irvine has urged the Clarets to take advantage of Barton's availability.

"I know he has had a bit of a controversial reputation but you can't take away his ability, and he has got plenty of that. We need someone in the middle of the park because we aren't creating enough," he told the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.

"I think he could get the players around him working harder and I'm sure the manager would be able to keep him under control if necessary, although I think he has calmed down a lot. He would certainly be up for the challenge of getting Burnley back in the Premier League."

Meanwhile, Rotherham United boss Steve Evans recently ruled his side out of the running to sign the midfielder.