Simpson keen for Barton to stay at QPR

Danny Simpson believes convincing Joey Barton to stay at QPR would be a ‘massive’ boost for the club.

Despite starting in both their matches this season, Barton’s future at Rangers is still unclear.

The controversial midfielder spent last term on loan at Marseille and is keen to return to France if a deal can be agreed.

He and Simpson have formed an eye-catching partnership down the right flank in the opening two games.

And the Rangers full-back hopes his former Newcastle team-mate will be still be a QPR player when the transfer window shuts.

“It would be massive if Joey could stay,” Simpson told West London Sport.

“Everyone knows what his qualities are. I hope he stays, for me and for the team, because he’s a great asset.

“Joey and I have played together numerous times. We know what it’s like to play together. We know what each other’s going to do. He’s such a quality player.”

That understanding between the two players was evident for Simpson’s strike in the Capital One Cup win at Exeter on Tuesday.

And Simpson revealed the slick passing move down the right in the build-up to the goal had been worked on during training.

He said: “The move for the goal came from the training ground. We’ve been working really hard on things and the lads are really enjoying themselves.

“The dressing room is so bubbly and lively. Everyone is together. We’re enjoying the feeling of winning.

“We want to get into the habit of winning. It’s massively important that we put a run together.”

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