Joey Barton is banned for the first 12 games of QPR’s season after his actions on the last day of the season.
The life and times of Joey Barton are never dull, but he did his best to convince us last season he was back on the straight and narrow.
The mirage of his Nietzsche quoting, art gallery visiting, reformed self came crashing down on the season’s final day when he was sent off for elbowing Carlos Tevez, before assaulting Sergio Aguero and attempting to headbutt Vincent Kompany.
His club survived on the final day despite suffering a late loss, but in the wake of a 12 game ban handed down by the FA, Joey Barton’s future itself is not so certain.
There was talk QPR may even sack him, and it is likely the only reason they did not was because it was too expensive to do so and they could do without the negative publicity of a disputed and protracted legal battle.
So the two parties must try to move forward together, but the fresh era remains tainted by the 12 game ban Barton must carry out, making him unavailable until mid-October.
There is talk of a loan move to the Championship, with Sheffield Wednesday declaring their interest. All things considered, it makes perfect sense.
The Premier League’s 25-man squad rule puts pressure on QPR. They have a big squad and will make new additions, even last year they left out Patrick Agyemang, who had started the first game of the season. It only has to be submitted after the transfer window closes on August 31.
Do the R’s use up one of their spots on a player who will be unavailable for a large number of matches?
Then there is the issue of Barton’s match fitness. May- October is a long time to go without a competitive game, will he be able to go straight into the cut and thrust of the Premier League?
Both are reasons why a short-term loan move away will be best. QPR should loan Barton out to a Championship club until the end of the year.
He could recover his match fitness, get up to speed, and rejoin the club in January. When it is time for the club to re-register their 25 man squad in January, they can include Barton then.
By that time, the spotlight would have faded somewhat from his actions in May, and he will be fully up to speed. It will even be like having a new signing back.
The question hanging over such a deal, is whether Barton’s ego could handle it. The man who declared himself among the best English footballers in the country and has such a high profile, would see it as a real fall from grace.
But if he wants to play regularly he should consider it, for QPR may decide not to select him in their 25, leaving him no option. Mark Hughes might just get back a more motivated and mature player on his return.
Do you agree a loan move would suit club and player?
image: © michael kjaer
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
