Rangers Midfielder Joey Barton Jealous Of Celtic - Tom Boyd

Former Celtic captain Tom Boyd reckons new Rangers midfielder Joey Barton is only mouthing off about his Parkhead rivals because he is jealous.Barton - who has confessed that as well as supporting Everton, he grew up cheering on the Hoops - has not been shy about commenting on his side's Old Firm foes since clinching his Ibrox move.He took aim at Celtic skipper Scott Brown last weekend, telling talkSPORT: "He's not in my league - he's nowhere near the level of player I am."He also questioned new Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers' credentials after pointing out his lack of silverware success during his stints at Swansea and Liverpool.But Boyd has hit back at the one-cap former England midfielder by insisting Barton is green with envy.The Celtic ambassador, speaking as he presented the Glasgow Taxis' Outing Fund for Sick Children with a cheque for £7,000 on behalf of the Celtic FC Foundation, said: "Joey is certainly making an impact in Scottish football already."I think there's a hint of jealousy there that he's not pulling on the hoops. He is a lifelong Celtic supporter, he's supported us for a number of years."So I just think he's jealous that he's not getting to play alongside Scott Brown or that Brendan didn't come in for him. I think that's the reason why he's shouting off his mouth now."It's a little bit of banter before the start of the season and I'm sure (the media) all love that. I've no doubt the Celtic supporters will have a wee song about him when he comes to Celtic Park."And the retired Hoops defender dismissed suggestions Brown would have a point to prove when he does come up against former Manchester City, Newcastle, QPR and Marseille midfielder Barton."No chance," said Boyd. "A Celtic captain? A Scotland captain with the medals Scott has won? No danger. This won't bother Scott at all."There will be some light-hearted banter on the match day and we'll look forward to it."

Source: PA-WIRE