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Sam Allardyce set to take chance on Joey Barton
WEST HAM boss Sam Allardyce is considering a shock move for controversial QPR midfielder Joey Barton.
Allardyce, who is also attempting to bring Liverpool winger Stewart Downing to Upton Park, would love to reunite Barton with his former Newcastle team-mates Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan. The trio were together when Big Sam was in charge at St James’ Park, Barton joining from Manchester City for £5.8million.
And misfit Barton, who spent last season on loan with Marseille in France, would jump at the chance of a return to the Premier League.
Although he has settled in back at Loftus Road under manager Harry Redknapp, and played in yesterday’s draw at Huddersfield, the 30-year-old believes he can still succeed in the top flight. On his last Premier League appearance in May 2012, Barton was sent off at Manchester City and earned a 12-match ban.
West Ham will offer Barton one more chance, under a manager he has played for and admires.