Glasgow Rangers boss Mark Warburton managed to complete a deal to bring the midfielder to Ibrox.
Sam Vokes has admitted his surprise after Joey Barton turned down the chance to stay and help Burnley ahead of their Premier League return and instead move to Rangers, the Daily Star reports.
The experienced midfielder was instrumental in guiding the Clarets to the Championship title and handing them an instant return to the top flight.
However, the 33-year-old has decided to leave Sean Dyche’s side, opting instead to be a part of the Gers’ first campaign back in the Scottish Premiership.
And while Vokes tipped Barton for success at Ibrox, he conceded that his decision had left him slightly stunned.
“I’m surprised he didn’t fancy the Premier League but I’m sure [he] will have a good crack at it at Rangers,” he told the Star.
“I’m gutted and surprised that Joey has left.
“He was a big part of the squad and a key figure on and off the pitch for us going up.”
While the riches of the Premier League, and the effort that Barton had put in to get them there in the first place, makes his decision somewhat perplexing, there are also reasons which makes his choice much easier to understand.
At this stage of his career, the midfielder is running out of chances to be lifting silverware.
And although Leicester’s efforts this past season suggest that no team can be ruled out of a title race any longer, Barton would certainly be forgiven for believing that he stands a much stronger chance of winning trophies and competing in Europe by joining Mark Warburton’s side.
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