Joey Barton

QPR owner, Tony Fernandes, has insisted that Joey Barton intends to learn from his mistakes and salvage his career at Loftus Road, after last season’s troubles.

The fiery midfielder was slapped with a 12-match ban by the FA, following his sending off against Manchester City on the final day of the season, receiving a huge fine by his club. He was also stripped of the captaincy.

While it was widely expected that QPR would look to get rid of Barton, this summer, Fernandes has insisted that the incident is firmly in the past, and the midfielder was still very much a part of the club’s plans going forward.

“Joey’s realised his mistakes. Hopefully, we can put this behind us. I am someone who believes everybody deserves a chance, as long as that someone shows they want the chance,” admitted Fernandes.

“For me, it’s now down to Joey. I can say whatever I want, but it’s all up to Joey. He’s put a lot at risk by saying I’m going to prove that I want to remain a member of QPR, and credit to him.”

While the season may have ended amid ugly scenes for Barton, it should not cover over the fact that the midfielder played a huge role in helping the club avoid relegation.

After a tough middle part to the season, Barton produced some sensational performances in the live football arena, during the closing parts of the league campaign, winning over the QPR fans and management.

While the former Manchester City and Newcastle star will not be available for the opening three months of the season, it will be like a new signing for the club when Barton returns to action at the end of his ban.

Then, it’ll be up to the hard-working Barton to prove himself to the fans and show he is determined to be a part of the club in the long term.

The Hoops are 5/1 for the drop in the relegation betting on Bet365. The bookies clearly feel that QPR have what it takes to remain in the Premier League for the 2013/14 season.