Barton clashed with a 15-year-old Everton supporter and then team-mate Richard Dunne when he intervened.

Pearce has been pleased with the way Barton has responded and named him in the squad to face West Brom on Saturday.

“Joey had three days away and kept himself fit,” he said. “We gave him a programme to work on.

“Since speaking with the (lifestyle) people , I have noticed a slight change in his mindset, which is good.

“We will give him as much assistance as we can.

“Joey has come back in and will fight for a place in the team. That has got to be his main priority.

“He has got to knuckle down. If he does that, I am sure that playing in the first team then sometimes your life is a lot happier.”

Dunne looks set to captain the side after making a remarkable recovery from a foot injury.

It was feared the Irish centre back had fractured a bone when he kicked a wall in frustration in the aftermath of his attempts to calm down Barton in a Bangkok bar.

However the damage is not as bad as was initially suspected and like Barton he has been called up into the squad.

Should he start, Dunne will take the armband from Sylvain Distin, who will be out for another week with a groin injury.

Pearce said: “Richard is back with us and will have another couple of days training. He will be available for selection.”