Kevin Nolan open to idea of former Newcastle United teammate Joey Barton joining Notts County

Kevin Nolan has revealed that he will be having a chat with Joey Barton in hope of persuading him to come to Notts County.

Barton, who played alongside Nolan at Newcastle United, will be able to return to football in the summer once his 13-month ban for betting offences comes to an end.

Although the 35-year-old is being tipped to join a Premier League or Championship team, the Magpies boss said he'd have a word with him and see what happens.

“Joey and I are good friends and he’s also a good friend of Darren Fletcher (board member),” Nolan told the Nottingham Post.

“He is a top player and a top lad. I really got on well with him and I think he describes himself as Joey on the pitch and Joseph off it. That’s his quote, not mine by the way.

“I get on with both of them and respect both of them very highly. From my point of view he will probably want to play at a higher level.

“If that doesn’t come to fruition then I am sure there will be a conversation between me and him in the summer.

“If a deal can be done, then it can, but if not then we wish him well.

“Let’s just see what happens. I am not ruling it out. It’s got to be right for the club, and most importantly it’s got to be right for the player.

“I got on well with him at Newcastle and we are very good friends off the field and on it.

“I don’t see it having a negative impact. It will only add more quality and positivity to the squad.”

Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans.

Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.