BARTON: 'FUTURE ELSEWHERE'

Last updated : 02 February 2006 By Ed

"Maybe I was a bit impetuous in handing a transfer request in but I have been backed into a corner.

"There are no negotiations so as far as I am concerned, my future lies elsewhere.

"It has been a hard year and this is the last thing I needed but it is something I have to deal with. I know there are people out there with agendas who are trying to make me out to be a money-grabber.

"People are saying I am being greedy but that is just not the case. My performances prove I value myself a lot higher than the club. I never wanted to leave and I am willing to listen to what the club have to say.

"I had a good chat with the manager yesterday and in his heart, he could see where I was coming from.

"People have stood by me and given me a lot. But if I had not been worth anything to them, I would not still be at the club.

"I was part of their plans, which is why they stood by me. They needed me and, with my performances on the pitch, I have shown why they had faith in me. But if I was a footballer of lesser ability, I would have been out of the door."