Redknapp happy to keep Barton at QPR

Harry Redknapp is happy to keep Joey Barton at QPR, and insists the controversial midfielder has not given him a minute’s trouble this season.

Barton has featured in featured in Rangers’ first three games of the campaign despite being widely expected to leave Loftus Road during the summer after a troubled two years at the club.

French side Marseille, where Barton spent last season on loan, were favourites to sign the 30-year-old on a permanent basis but appear to have cooled their interest.

And Redknapp insists that if no further interest is arises, he is keen for Barton to stay.

“Joey’s playing ever so well, he’s in the team on merit, he’s been excellent,” Redknapp said. “Not only has he been good as a player, he’s not been a minute’s problem as a person.

“I only knew Joey very slightly before but since I’ve been here he’s trained hard, worked hard, played well, not done anything silly and got on with his football.

“I think Joey would have gone to Marseille, but I’m not sure what the deal is with them. He’s enjoying playing, showing great enthusiasm.”

Esteban Granero this became the latest high-profile player to leave QPR, as the Spaniard joined Real Sociedad on a season-long loan, a move which disappointed the Rs manager.

He added: “I didn’t want Esteban to go but where they’re big earners you have to balance the books, and that’s what we’re doing.”