New QPR boss Mark Hughes has warned club captain Joey Barton that he will ban him from Twitter if he reveals any dressing room secrets on the social networking site.
Barton has garnered a reputation for controversy on Twitter having become embroiled in numerous arguments with high profile figures, but drew criticism from QPR fans last week after branding former Rs boss Neil Warnock ‘embarrassing’ after his departure from the club.
The former Manchester City and Newcastle midfielder wrote in response to criticism from Warnock: "Neil Warnock saying I talk too much. Now that is funny”
"If I talked about Neil, he'd do well to get another job.
He added: "Twitter cost him his job? I can think of a million other things. Lost his job and guy is blaming everyone but himself! Embarrassing, time to look in the mirror mate.”
Hughes remained adamant that Barton’s use of the site had yet to become a problem, but said he would have no hesitation in having words with the 29-year-old if he stepped out of line.
Asked if he had a problem with Barton using the site, the former Fulham boss said: “No, not at this stage. Joey understands what happens in the dressing room stays there and I don't think it will be a problem."
However, he added: "If ever I felt that it was going to compromise us then we'd have a conversation and talk it through, but certainly I haven't felt the need to do that up to this point."
Barton returned from suspension to jeers from the away support as QPR recorded a 3-1 victory over Wigan on Saturday, a result that lifted them out of the relegation zone.
Strikes from Heidar Helguson, Akos Buzsaky and Tommy Smith helped Hughes pick up his first league win as QPR boss, but the former Welsh international was full of praise for his captain’s efforts in the face of adversity.
“Some players carry that (criticism) well, carry it on their shoulders and it doesn't affect them at all,” he commented.
“I thought he played really well. Other players try to shy away from all that because it affects their performance level. But for Joey it's water off a duck's back.”
