Joey Barton named Fleetwood Town boss as controversial footballer moves into management

Joey Barton has been appointed as the new head coach of Fleetwood Town and will take the reins once his betting ban is over.

The former Man City, QPR and Burnley midfielder is currently suspended from all football until June 1, 2018 after having his original expulsion reduced by five months.

Barton was banned in April of last year after being charged with breaking FA rules for placing 1,260 bets on matches between 26 March 2006 and 13 May 2016.

However, Fleetwood have moved to tie the 35-year-old down to a three-year deal that will begin on June 2, one day after his ban is lifted.

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Barton said: “I’m very excited by the challenge and the project at Fleetwood Town.

“It’s a club I’ve known for a long time, and a chairman I already have a very good relationship with.

“My first job in management was always going to be a big decision for me and I’m delighted with the opportunity ahead, I’m joining a club with big ambitions. I’m looking forward to getting started on June 2nd.”

Fleetwood are currently 14^th in the League One table as the conclusion of the 2017/18 campaign approaches.

Chairman Andy Pilley added: “This is a huge appointment for Fleetwood Town Football Club and one I’m very excited about.

“Joey not only brings a host of experience and profile, but I also feel he has the potential to become one of the best in the new generation of coaches”

“He’s someone I’ve known for a number of years and I’m convinced he’s ready to make the step into management, and that he will be a huge success.

“Joey will be able to build-on the fantastic work done by John Sheridan during the last couple of months, one he deserves huge credit for.

“John joined us on a short term arrangement with the aim of keeping us in League One and I’m delighted he’s been able to do that.

“Today’s news signals a new chapter for Fleetwood Town which starts on June 2nd, and one which we are all excited about.”