One-match betting ban for Barton

JOEY BARTON will carry a one-match ban into his post-Rangers career, after he admitted breaching SFA rules on gambling. The English midfielder, whose Ibrox contract was terminated last week, had been charged with betting on 44 games between July 1 and September 15. The SFA’s rules forbid gambling on football anywhere in the world. Barton’s punishment was confirmed following a hearing at Hampden and the

suspension will now follow him when he signs for a new club in January. He has been offered the chance to train with former side Burnley until that point. Barton was named in the Championship Team of the Year last season, after helping Sean Dyche’s team win promotion. ‘There are lots of players that I’ve helped out in the past and if he felt he needed a base to get fit, I’d listen,’ said Dyche. ‘If Joey requires our support then he’d get that. If he doesn’t, he’ll move forward to wherever he needs to. ‘But that would be it. The rest of it is something for the future, not for now.’ Meanwhile, Rangers manager Mark Warburton has denied claims of a dispute with Martyn Waghorn. The striker has had to make do with coming off the bench in the last four games. Having turned down a contract offer during the summer, it was suggested the 26-year-old would push for a January exit. ‘I read that apparently I’ve had a fall-out with Waghorn and he’s desperate to leave,’ said Warburton. ‘Waggy knocked on my door and went: “Have we had a fallout, gaffer?” and I went: “Not that I’m aware of, Waggy”. And that was it. ‘There is no problem with Waggy, his attitude is first-class.’ Warburton said there was ‘absolutely’ a chance of Waghorn signing an extension if he forced his way back into the side. ‘I hope very much that that’s the case,’ added the Ibrox manager. ‘But he’s frustrated. Every player wants to play, but you can only pick 11. ‘It’s the same everywhere. He’s training hard, and when his chance comes he’ll be ready.’