Barton keen to stay
17 Jan 2007 - 07:45:17
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton insists he is happy to stay at the club despite recent reports linking him with a possible transfer to Everton.
The 24-year-old has a clause in his current City contract that allows him to speak to any club offering Stuart Pearce's side £5.5million, but Everton have been told the player is not for sale.
Barton said after his side's FA Cup third round replay success against Sheffield Wednesday: "I've stated on record I don't want to leave.
"I'm totally settled. We're going in the right direction and I've got a manager who believes in me."
Pearce added: "There's a maturity in that statement that probably wasn't there last year. Credit to him for speaking out. He's got frustrated and irritated with the speculation.
"The main thing as a pro is being happy. All the rest follows. He's playing extremely well and I mentioned England before Christmas. He's getting better and better.
"Joey knows full well he has the backing of a manager that holds him in high esteem."
