Joey Barton wrong to criticise Taarabt, says QPR boss Warnock
Published:Queens Park Rangers’ skipper Joey Barton is the first player to break ranks and criticise teammate Adel Taarabt – much to the annoyance of boss Neil Warnock.
Speaking following their 1-1 draw with Blackburn on Saturday, Barton said: “I came here and was told he was a genius and I’m yet to see it.
“I don’t know whether it’s because he does not work hard enough or whether he tends to sulk.”
However, Warnock has come out and defended the Moroccan – who has yet to score in the Premier League this term – and has admitted he will talk to Batron.
Speaking to ESPN, Warnock said: “What he is saying about Adel I think is a little bit out of order.
“I think there is one or two lads in the team at the moment that could do better so sometimes you look elsewhere.
“I’ll probably have a chat with him on Tuesday and see what he actually said.”
QPR are currently 11th in the league following their draw against Blackburn and have lengthened in the relegation betting to 5/2 to be playing Championship football next term – which could prove a decent bet if the players are unable to stop having a go at each other.
Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger has admitted half of his first team wanted to leave in the summer – but expects their form to get better in the coming weeks.
Wenger’s midfield from last season has been completely decimated, with Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri leaving and Jack Wilshere suffering a long-term injury.
Wenger said said: “We’ve disappointed this season so far, given what’s expected of us, but I think we’re on the up again. The problem is you can only climb the table slowly.
“We’re not too far away in terms of points from fourth place but we’re too far away from the top two.”
With Wenger ruling out a tilt at the title, Arsenal are currently priced at 11/4 to finish in the top four.
