Joey Barton: 'I could have caused problems at QPR to seal Marseille move'

Joey Barton has claimed that he could have "caused problems" for Queens Park Rangers in a bid to push through a permanent move to Marseille.

The former Newcastle United midfielder has been open about his desire to return to the Ligue 1 outfit following a loan stint last season.

Despite wanting a permanent transfer, QPR demanded a fee for the midfielder, but Marseille were understood to have failed to meet their valuation.

"I am 31, I am not young, I have a certain salary and to pay a fee for an old guy like me, that is asking a lot," Barton told L'Equipe.

"I could have caused problems here at the club so they would let me go. I even think that would have worked, but I am not that kind of guy. I have never done that at a club in my career."

Barton has been praised for his performances in the Championship this season since returning to Loftus Road.