Joey Barton's achievements should not be overlooked says Wycombe boss Gareth Ainsworth ahead of play-off clash at Fleetwood

The rival bosses have hailed each other's achievements as both clubs bid to reach the Championship for the first time in their history.

Barton has frequently sung the praises of Ainsworth, who in turn used the Chairboys' pre-match press conference on Wednesday to stress that his Fleetwood counterpart does not receive the credit he deserves for his progress in management.

Ainsworth said: "People judge Joey on other things than football, and although he has this passion that can run over sometimes, he has done an incredible job.

"I think Joey recognises Wycombe as a good club. He knows we've had to scrap to get results, and I think Joey loves that - he knows what we've had to do with limited resources.

"This is not a love-fest between me and Joey. But for someone to get into the play-offs for the Championship in his second full season is a great achievement, and sometimes gets overlooked because of other news issues surrounding Joey."

Ainsworth, who expects to be able to choose from a fully-fit squad for the opening leg, will be backing his rival if they go through to face either Oxford or Portsmouth in the Wembley final a week on Monday.

"We'll definitely have a beer after the two legs and I'm sure whoever reaches that final will be wishing the other good luck," Ainsworth added.