Glasgow Rangers fans have suggested that Joey Barton should not start the Old Firm derby, says Mark Wilson.
Rangers’ Clint Hill and Joey Barton look dejected
Former Celtic defender Mark Wilson has told The Express that some Rangers fans have told him that Joey Barton should not start this weekend.
Rangers will take on Old Firm rivals Celtic away from home at Celtic Park in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday afternoon.
Former Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton is expected to be an important player for the Gers during the game.
Barton joined Rangers on a free in the summer transfer window after leaving Burnley at the end of last season.
Rangers midfielder Joey Barton
Former Celtic defender Wilson has claimed that some Rangers fans have suggested to him that club manager Mark Warburton should not start the 34-year-old midfielder against Brendan Rodgers’s side.
“It’s going to be interesting to see if Barton raises his game and if Broony (Scott Brown) keeps playing the way he has been,” Wilson told The Express.
“I’m sure it will be a great encounter but that’s assuming Barton starts. You hear rumours and I’ve spoken to some Rangers fans who have said they wouldn’t start him.
“Brown has definitely got the upper hand. I hope it’s a good, fiery encounter and that Scott comes out on top.”
Joey Barton of Rangers
Barton is a very good footballer and was a high-profile signing for Rangers in the summer transfer window.
The Englishman should start against Celtic, as he will give the Gers an extra bite and strength in midfield.
The former Queens Park Rangers and Manchester City midfielder is used to playing in big games, and Rangers need him against the Hoops.
Celtic will head into the Old Firm derby as favourites, but Rangers can force a draw at Celtic Park in Glasgow.
Joey Barton in action with Dean Marney
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