Burnley manager Sean Dyche has today confirmed that turbulent midfielder Joey Barton has made his return to Turf Moor just six months after leaving for Rangers.
The 34-year-old endured a nightmare spell in Glasgow, seeing his contract ultimately terminated by the Scottish club just eight games into his Rangers career.
Barton was banned for six weeks by Rangers in September following a 'training ground altercation', and he was signed of 'with stress' earlier this month.
He hasalso found himself at the centre of a gambling scandal, which alleges that Barton placed 44 illegal bets during his spell in the Scottish Premiership.
But Burnley boss Sean Dyche is ready to look past Barton's off-field antics, admitting that the veteran is back training with the Clarets this week.
Dyche told the Burnley Express: "Joey has been in with us training, with us, to get himself fit, not with the first team.
Burnley manager Sean Dyche has confirmed Joey Barton has made a return to the club.
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"Beyond that, anything else is for the future, he's just getting himself fit."
Barton made 40 appearances for Burnley last season, playing a key role in their promotion which saw them lifted from the Championship to the Premier League.
Although he may be considered past his peak by many Rangers fans, his wealth of Premier League experience could certainly benefit Burnley as they aim to survive in their first season back in the top-flight.
Sean Dyche's side are currently 12th after 12 games, dropping down the table after their humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of West Brom on Monday night.