Rangers boss Mark Warburton brought Barton to Ibrox this summer.
Rangers’ Joey Barton in action with Burnley’s Dean Marney
Rangers take on Celtic this weekend in a long-awaited Old Firm derby in the Scottish Premiership.
Much of the build-up ahead of the game has focussed around the midfield battle between Rangers’ new signing Joey Barton and Celtic captain Scott Brown.
Celtic’s Scott Brown celebrates scoring their fifth goal
Barton, signed from Burnley by Mark Warburton this summer, is in no doubt that he is the better player – and that is a view shared by another Englishman who played in midfield for Rangers.
Ray Wilkins spent two years at Rangers between 1987 and 1989 and was a firm fan favourite during his time at Ibrox.
He was speaking on Sky Sports News HQ today (08/09/16) when he made it clear that he felt Barton was the superior player – stating:
“I think Joey’s the better player.
“They’re extremely combative, both of them. Joey has already stated that he thinks he is by far the better player and that Scott’s not in his class. Well that will soon be shown up on Saturday when they lock horns.
Ray Wilkins – Rangers in action
“I think Joey will enjoy it up there because it’s very quick, it’s ferocious, and I think that will suit his type of football.
“The fire has been stoked, so let’s see what happens.”
The Ibrox faithful have certainly been treated to some big talk from Barton since his arrival but, as Wilkins states, he will have to walk the walk this weekend.
As much as the Rangers star believes he is the better player Celtic’s skipper will be looking to chop him down to size this weekend in what should be a fascinating clash between the pair.
Rangers fans, Wilkins included, will be hoping that Barton can put his money where his mouth is.
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