Marc Bircham: ‘Barton eager to play for QPR’

Queens Park Rangers youth manager Marc Bircham believes that Joey Barton would be a “fantastic signing” for the newly-promoted Premier League side.

The 28-year-old midfielder has been in negotiations with the London club this week after undergoing a medical in the capital.

Despite the former Manchester City player revealing he is yet to commit to a move, Bircham is confident that it will go through.

“I spoke to Joey and it’s nothing to do with the club or manager [that he hasn't signed yet],” Bircham told talkSPORT. “He really wants to play for us; he just has a few family issues to sort out to do with relocating.

“He would be a magnificent signing for the club and shows the ambition of the board and where we want to go.”

The former QPR midfielder insists that Barton’s off-field problems are not a cause for concern.

“Forget the off-field stuff, as a player he’s perfect for us,” he added. “I’ve always liked him and I like the way he goes about things on the pitch. He’d give us a spark and would be a fantastic signing.”

Meanwhile, Barton has admitted on his Twitter page that he will make a decision on his future today.