Source: SKY_Sports
Barton back with Newcastle
Joey Barton returned to training with Newcastle on Wednesday for the first time since being banished by Alan Shearer.
The controversial midfielder was exiled by the interim boss in the wake of a dressing room bust-up following his red card in the defeat at Liverpool on 3rd May, a dismissal which ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
Shearer was unable to prevent the Magpies sliding into the Championship during his eight games at the helm and the club remain in turmoil without a permanent manager and with owner Mike Ashley determined to sell.
Chris Hughton, who has been placed in temporary charge, and the remaining members of the coaching staff will work with the players before heading off for a training camp in Ireland on Sunday.
Barton's future remains a matter of some speculation with the club certain to move on many of their high earners as they prepare for life outside the Premier League.
Goalkeeper Steve Harper was the first senior man to arrive on Wednesday morning, closely followed by the likes of Nicky Butt, Alan Smith, Steven Taylor, Danny Guthrie, Kevin Nolan and Jose Enrique.
Striker Obafemi Martins, who has been linked with Stoke and Portsmouth in recent weeks, was a late arrival, although he did eventually turn up to continue his recovery from hernia surgery during the summer.
Five international players - Damien Duff, Sebastien Bassong, Jonas Gutierrez, Geremi and Xisco - have been given extra time because of their exertions with their countries since the end of last season.
Michael Owen, Mark Viduka, Claudio Cacapa, Peter Lovenkrands, David Edgar and Ignacio Gonzalez were all out of contract at midnight on Tuesday night and are now free agents.
