Adam Barton has withdrawn from the Northern Ireland squad just 24 hours after receiving his first call-up.
Midfielder wants to keep his options open
Preston midfielder Adam Barton has withdrawn from the Northern Ireland squad just 24 hours after receiving his first call-up.
Blackburn-born Barton wants to keep his options open, according to a statement released by the Irish Football Association.
Barton was the surprise name in Nigel Worthington's 22-man squad for the forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Italy and the Faroe Islands.
However, after helping Preston defeat Leeds 6-4 on Tuesday night, the 19-year-old has had a change of heart.
In the statement the IFA said that Barton has decided that he would like to keep his options open with regards to England and also concentrate on his club career at Preston.
Barton has represented Northern Ireland at Under 19 level and Worthington admitted he was disappointed with the youngster's decision.
"I am disappointed with the decision; however I fully understand Adam's situation," admitted Worthington.
