Barton could be set for Marseille stay

QPR midfielder Joey Barton could permanently move to Marseille once his loan deal with the club finishes, says their sporting director Jose Anigo.

The 30-year-old was pushed out of Loftus Road by former boss Mark Hughes after his behaviour at the end of last season, which resulted in him earning a 12-game ban.

But he has since moved to France and is making an impact in Ligue 1 with the former Champions League winners and he is proving such a hit that Marseille could well sign him in the summer.

"He was described as an animal, but he is just the opposite. He is funny, intelligent, and he fights for victory," Anigo told L'Equipe.

"We can see that the team has been lifted by his competitive spirit. He is now established as a leader in our group.

"He is very happy here, maybe he has found the right club for him. Should he desire (to stay) it could be very good. We have a very good relationship with his club QPR."