It’s been a long, drawn out affair for Joey Barton and even after being told to stay away from Newcastle’s training ground by Alan Shearer after being sent off during their 3 - nil loss away to Liverpool, the 26 year old has gone public with his desire to remain at the relegated club down in the Championship.

No doubt about his abilities at the highest level, but would a year or two away from the Premiership spotlight help?

Via Gaurdian 

He was also understood to have been embroiled in a row with the manager, Alan Shearer, in the dressing room afterwards. However, Barton, who has served a jail sentence during his Newcastle career after admitting charges of common assault and affray, wants to stay on Tyneside.

If Shearer takes the job on a permanent basis, however, Barton’s spell in the north east could soon be over. “I don’t know what is going to happen with the club or with the manager situation,” he told The Chronicle. “I’m just looking forward to going back and my intention is to stay at the club and help Newcastle back into the Premier League. If Alan Shearer takes the job and if he doesn’t want me then my hands are tied. All I can do is try and get as fit as possible, but I have got to prepare for all eventualities.”

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