Everton legend Peter Reid believes Joey Barton could be successful at Everton
Opinions are divided on Joey Barton’s possible move to Everton
Everton legend Peter Reid believes Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey Barton can be successful with Everton in the Premier League.
The 30-year-old’s agent Willie McKay has offered him to Toffees manager Roberto Martinez and if Martinez agrees, Barton could move to Everton.
Speaking to Dailymail, Reid said: “Everyone makes mistakes so I’m not condemning Joey Barton for what he may have done in his past. He’s an easy target at times but he is maturing.
“The first thing is he is a boyhood Everton fan so no-one could question his commitment to the club if he came.
“He’s proved he can handle the Premier League and did well for Marseille in an improving French league last season.”
He added: “If a deal could be done for next to no money it is always worth looking at. Joey did really well at Newcastle when he played on the right hand side getting up and down and delivering some great crosses.
“He can also play a holding role, so that versatility is always important to a squad.”
However, another former Everton player Neville Southall, censuring Barton, did not think that the deal would work out. To which, Barton has expressed his disappointment through twitter.
His tweets read:
Its well known who I support. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work that out. Good football agents will always be looking to move…
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) August 1, 2013
Its funny how people take a throw away comment to a hypothetical question and before you know it, its national news.
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) August 1, 2013
Playing in the Champions League for Olympique Marseille, nothing has changed my end. If not, I am contracted to QPR and will give my all
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) August 1, 2013
…to help them regain their Premier League status. If, something happens and both clubs decide differently than I will assess my options.
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) August 1, 2013