Joey Barton has said that that Michael Owen is one of the best footballers England has ever produced.

Former England international Owen is currently searching for a new club following his release from Manchester United earlier this summer.

However, Barton believes that were few better players than the ex-Liverpool and Real Madrid frontman at his peak.

"I think @themichaelowen is the best player England has ever produced. For match winning performances, none better!" he wrote on Twitter.

"Not on about his whole career. I'm on about at his peak. Whatever age that was, he was totally unplayable.

"If he didn't pick up those injuries when he did, I don't think we'd be debating this."

Owen has recently been linked with a move to Stoke City.