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Everton deny interest in QPR bad boy Joey Barton
EVERTON won't be rushing to make a bid for QPR's Joey Barton this summer.
Reports emerged this week in the Liverpool Echo that the 30-year-old would be willing to take a 50 per cent pay cut to move back to Merseyside with Roberto Martinez believed to be interested in the prospect.
But now it seems Everton have sounded out a move as they are keen to snap up a young central midfielder.
Goodison legend Neville Southall hit out at Barton and poured scorn on the idea when asked if he would be a good signing.
"I think they have already got a kitman," Southall said.
"What is he going to add to Everton? He might be a half-decent player at times but, if he was that good, Harry Redknapp would be begging him to stay at QPR.
“I don’t see how he will fit into Everton’s style of play. He ain’t the best passer in the world.
“Yes he is fit and runs up and down all day but Forrest Gump did that as well didn’t he?”
Barton laughed off Southall's comments, tweeting: "After all, Life is like a box of chocolates...
Barton spent last season on loan at Marseille.