Joey Barton says he would have moved Rangers to play in England.
Former Glasgow Rangers midfielder Joey Barton was discussing his time in Scotland last night on BBC Radio 5 Live, and had plenty to say.
Barton, 34, is a free agent after leaving Rangers last month, just six months and eight games into his spell at the club.
Rangers’ Joey Barton looks dejected
The midfielder believes Rangers missed a golden opportunity four years ago when they were liquidated, to wave goodbye to Scottish football and start again in England.
Speaking to 5 Live’s Wednesday Night Club, Barton said: “If I was in charge at Rangers, I’d have turned round and put two fingers up at the Scottish FA and and said I’d start again in England.
“They’ve clawed their way up, they are as big as most clubs down here.
“Football ultimately is about finances. If you cant buy players, you cant pay them, or eat at the top table for long enough.”
Rangers’ Clint Hill and Joey Barton look dejected
Rangers were demoted in 2012 for financial irregularities, moving into what was then division three. Last season they were finally promoted back into the Scottish Premiership.
Since their return to the top flight, Rangers have found it tough to compete with rivals Celtic, who have a wage bill which is more than double the Light Blues.
Barton experienced this first hand, and believes clearly their best route to be competitive in Europe would have been the controversial decision to switch to England. It’s likely not possible now, and no surprise to see Barton picking the more difficult and conflict-heavy route.
Rangers’ Joey Barton arrives before the game
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