The Football Transfer Tavern has been split down the middle over the Joey Barton debate for a long time.
The Rangers midfielder’s training ground row with Andy Halliday and Barton’s consequential three week ban has bought the debate back, as to whether or not he is an asset or liability.
Some people feel that he isn’t worth the hassle, whereas as others feel that his performances on the pitch are good enough to warrant a bit of extra attention, especially so now that he is playing in Scotland.
There is a suggestion that Joey Barton has played his last game for Rangers and that he will be seen out of the door at the nearest opportunity.
Here are TWO pros and TWO cons for axing Joey Barton? Do you agree with these and do you think Joey Barton should be axed or allowed back into the side? Let us know…..
PRO: Authority
If Joey Barton was to be axed, it would show the other players in the Rangers squad that no disturbing or unprofessional behaviour will be accepted in any shape or form.
The initial ban that was given to him highlighted to the others in the squad that it wouldn’t be accepted, but if he was to be axed then it would really make the point hit home for everyone around the club that they can’t let their emotions or frustration get the better of them.
PRO: Opportunities
If Joey Barton was to be axed then it would give an opportunity for somebody else to fill his role, who had maybe been at the club before.
Barton is a good player, but whoever was chosen to fill his shoes would step up their game to show that they are worthy for the starting spot in the team.
It would also mean that there would be more fierce competition for the starting spots in midfield in the short term, which would make players step up their game.
CON: Quality
Despite what people like to think, Joey Barton has quality and when he plays well he is very effective on the pitch.
Rangers are in their first season back in the top division of Scottish football, and need all of the talent and skill that they can possibly get to try to get back up there with Celtic at the top of the league.
The Old Firm derby match showed that there is currently a difference in ability between the two sides, and Rangers can’t be letting their better players leave if they are to fulfil their ambitions.
CON: Experience
Rangers have a lot of exciting young talent in their ranks, but every team with an abundance of talented youngsters need some experienced heads.
Joey Barton has been around for a long time, and been involved in a lot of big games and his past experiences will help the youngsters deal with the pressure that they will face being at Rangers.
He will also be a good leader on the pitch and will be willing to tell players what they need to do, something which is also important.
