Barton committed to Toon cause

Joey Barton claimed on Twitter on Sunday that he wants to stay at Newcastle but cannot sign a new contract because he has not been offered one.

Barton has one year remaining on his contract at St James's Park but has been linked with a move away this summer after his agent, Willie McKay, revealed this week that his client would not be offered a new deal.

Speaking on the Twitter account he launched earlier this week, Barton repeated the claim.

"Finished playing golf, 72 not bad. Came in to questions about joining Everton??? I don't want to leave Newcastle but thanks anyways........" he wrote.

"I cant sign a contract if am not offered one?"

The 28-year-old then reiterated his commitment to the club for next season.

"I will tell all when the time is right, basically they want a younger, better, cheaper player............cant blame (owner Mike Ashley) and (managing director Derek Llambias) can you?" he said.

".......slight problem is, they dont want to spend any money or pay any wages. Its genius really ha ha

"I am an employee so have to be careful here. Everyone knows i'd love to stay, i get on with (manager Alan Pardew) fine and are dressing room is 1st class..

"if am not offered a new contract, my hands are tied. I will continue to do everything in my power to bring a trophy to St James next season."