Thursday, 21st February, 2013
Joey Barton has revealed that Harry Redknapp would like him back at QPR, but insists he is minded to remain with Marseille if at all possible.
The midfielder is on a season-long loan at the Stade Velodrome from the Rs, following a turbulent 2011/12 campaign at Loftus Road, which saw him start the current season with a 12-match ban.
It followed Barton over to France, causing him to only make his Ligue 1 debut in November.
The Englishman is loving life at his new home however and happy with the support he has been given by Marseille since he arrived.
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Barton’s future beyond this season is unclear though and, with QPR having sacked Mark Hughes and replaced him with Harry Redknapp, the former Newcastle man knows he is wanted back at Loftus Road.
"I’ve talked to the people here and yes, apparently they want me to stay", he told L’Equipe, when asked about whether he has spoken to Marseille about his future.
"But it is not that clear cut. The QPR manager has changed and I have a good relationship with the one who has arrived.
"He wants me back.
"But I do not see myself going back. Me, I want to stay here.
"Marseille supported me when I was suspended, so if they want me to stay, it will be my priority.
"If this is not possible financially, or if they prefer to have someone else, we’ll see. I have other options."
Barton is relishing this weekend’s Ligue 1 clash, which could see him face to face with David Beckham as Marseille meet Paris Saint-Germain in Le Clasique.
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