Joey Barton was brought to Ibrox by Glasgow Rangers boss Mark Warburton.
Bobby Russell has told The Glasgow Evening Times that it was disrespectful for Rangers midfielder Joey Barton to say what he did in the summer.
The 34-year-old joined Rangers on a Bosman in May after playing a huge role in helping Burnley win Premier League promotion.
In his first public comments after signing for the Gers, Barton claimed that he was joining up with Mark Warburton’s side in order to become the best player in the Scottish Premiership in what was a big statement by the ex-Newcaste United man.
The outspoken Liverpudlian is currently suspended by Rangers after being hit with a three-week ban following a training-ground row with Andy Halliday.
His long-term career at Ibrox still hangs in the balance almost, and Russell, who spent a decade on the blue half of the Old Firm divide, says his brazen comments were “disrespectful” to Scottish football.
“He has got a lot to say. I don’t know if it was bold or stupid when he said he would be the best player in Scotland before a ball was kicked. To me, that is disrespectful,” he told The Glasgow Evening Times.
“He is more or less saying that Scottish football is a bit second rate. I found it strange that he came away with something like that.
“Maybe halfway through a season when you have been playing well you can turn round and make that kind of statement.
“But not before a ball has been kicked. There is no doubt that he is a good player. I am a great believer that you do your talking on the pitch.”
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