As reported yesterday by The Chronicle, ex-Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton has been released by Glasgow Rangers following a disappointing spell at the club.
Barton, now 34, finds himself a free agent after his deal with the Scottish giants was written off due to stress.
With the former England midfielder now available, there was some initial speculation suggesting that he would return to Newcastle and help the side compete for promotion, especially with the possibility that current Newcastle star Jonjo Shelvey could be out for up to five games following an FA charge relating to an incident against Wolves earlier in the season.
However, it now seems unlikely that Barton will link up with his former club again and that his best chance of a return to St James’ Park is if Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce acts on his interest in Barton but he could face competition with Burnley also supposedly keen.
Ex Star Set For Return?
