Joey Barton - Neymar is a show pony

Neymar had the big stage last night at Wembley, and he didn't quite live up to his star billing.

Seizing on his indifferent showing was keen observer Joey Barton, who took time out from tweeting about James Milner and Steven Gerrard's dodgy haircuts to offer his own bruising opinion on Brazil's latest prodigy.

Neymar certainly set himself up for a bit of flak before the game, insisting only one England player would get into Brazil's side, Wayne Rooney.

In fact we wonder if he has even heard of Mr. Barton?

Barton is right to state that Neymar isn't at Messi or Ronaldo's standard, and whether he would pay the big bucks for him is his prerogative, but there are plenty of clubs who would, if Santos decided to sell.

His 27 goals in 41 games in 2012 in all competitions is testament to the 21-year-old's talent, which included 8 in 12 Copa Libertadores matches.

Where he is definitely being his controversial self, is branding Neymar a show pony. You can read his Tweets below:

This Neymar fella is massively overrated. Not in the same street as Messi or Ronaldo.

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) February 6, 2013

I wouldn't pay the £40-50 million there asking for Neymar. Not a chance. #showpony

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) February 6, 2013

Do you agree, or is Barton being unfair?

image: © Ronnie Macdonald

Dan Coombs

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Dan Coombs is a writer who is keen to embrace the internet revolution. He first started writing for us in June 2011 and commenced his new role as Sports Editor in February 2012.

As a trained journalist he has met famous faces from Mr T to Boris Johnson. He once featured in an England World Cup music video too, but it did not make the charts.

He grew up wanting to be a Formula 1 driver, but it looks like this dream has passed him by. Instead, he hopes you enjoy reading his writing on our site, as we seek to debate the day's sporting hot topics.