Joey Barton loses QPR armband and six weeks’ wages

Barton is held back after his red card

Queens Park Rangers have confirmed that Joey Barton is no longer the club captain, as they served the midfielder a grave warning about his future.

After an internal investigation, Barton has been stripped of the QPR armband and fined six weeks’ worth of wages following his red card against former club Manchester City on the final day of the Premier League season. Barton lashed out at three City players as QPR were battling to avoid relegation at the Etihad Stadium, and has subsequently been banned for 12 matches by the FA.

Barton has also been told to stay away from QPR’s pre-season tour of Asia next month, and his club have warned him that another “serious breach” of their disciplinary procedures will see his contract terminated. The midfielder was involved in a fight outside a Liverpool nightclub earlier this month.

“It was important that we took our time to make sure we came to the correct decision, which I believe we have achieved,” said club CEO Philip Beard.

“Joey's behaviour, which led to his red card at Manchester City, and his subsequent actions were completely unacceptable and we have made our feelings on this matter known to him.

"I am really pleased with the way in which the club and Joey have worked towards reaching a sensible conclusion and we fully believe he will respond to these sanctions in the correct manner."

Barton added to his club’s statement by saying: “My behaviour was wrong and I accept the punishment that has been imposed upon me as a result.

“I apologise to the manager, my team-mates and of course the QPR fans for my actions. I also apologise to the Manchester City players, staff and supporters.”

Typically, it didn’t taking long for Barton to elaborate on the decision on twitter, where he wrote: “I was reckless and deserved every punishment I received.

“Money comes and goes, it's not important to me. Losing the captaincy and missing 12 games, is what really hurts. I was stupid and that what happens when you do dumb things. I am confident I’ll bounce back. Cannot wait.

“That's all I have to say on the matter. I wish to put it behind me now and help QPR, once available of course, push on towards the top half.”

Mark Jones – follow me on twitter

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