Queens Park Rangers manager Mark Hughes has revealed that Joey Barton's place in his side is not guaranteed just because he is the club's captain.
Barton was the subject of boos from the Loftus Road crowd when he was substituted during the 3-2 win over Liverpool on Wednesday.
The Hoops improved dramatically following the 29-year-old's departure, coming back from 2-0 down to claim a three points.
Ahead of their game at Sunderland later today, Hughes has explained that Barton is not guaranteed a place in his starting XI.
He said: "Irrespective of your standing in the squad, you still have to perform.
"I always reserve the right to make a judgement based on what I see at any given time.
"Will the decision to drop Barton be more difficult because he is captain? Not really. I pick teams I feel will win Premier League matches."
Barton has been an ever-present fixture in the Rangers team this season, only missing three games through suspension.
Robert Summerscales
