John Barnes was unable to stop the Conservatives being embarrassed on the football pitch as they suffered a 5-0 defeat to a team of journalists.

The former England and Liverpool legend took on the role of managing a Tory team which included Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Brexit minister Chris Heaton-Harris and Pensions Minister Guy Opperman.

Football match
The annual match was played at the Birmingham County FA ground (Aaron Chown/PA)

The annual match with a Lobby XI consisting of journalists was played at the Birmingham County FA ground in Great Barr to mark the start of the Conservative Party conference in the city.

Labour last week defeated the media 3-2 in Liverpool, with former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler among the goals.

Football
The Lobby XI won 5-0 (Aaron Chown/PA)