Joey Barton returning to Burnley after Rangers departure
Wednesday 21 December 2016 11:03, UK
Joey Barton will rejoin former club Burnley in January following his short-lived spell in Scotland with Rangers, subject to international clearance, the club have confirmed.
Barton left Sean Dyche's side for Rangers in the summer, but has now agreed terms for a return subject to international clearance.
During his time at Ibrox, Barton played just eight times before being suspended for his part in a training ground row following a 5-1 defeat to Celtic in September.
The midfielder did not play for Rangers again and left the club last month, paving the way for his second spell with Burnley, with Dyche speaking highly of the player on a number of occasions.
The 34-year-old previously spent the 2015/16 campaign with the Lancashire side and helped them win the Championship last season.
He has been training with Burnley in order to keep his fitness up, but it remains to be seen when he will come into contention for a place in Dyche's team, although he will not be available until the January transfer window opens.
Sky Sources understand Barton has been undergoing a fitness regime very similar to that of a pre-season so that he is ready for the pace and rigours of the Premier League
Barton was charged by the Scottish FA in October for placing 44 bets on football matches between July 1 and September 15.
After having his hearing put back in order to review documentation, he was given a one-match suspension and it is expected that will be honoured by the FA.
Barton was Burnley's Player of the Year last season, scoring three goals against MK Dons, Brentford and Preston in 40 appearances.
