Barton’s City future remains up in the air

JOEY BARTON’S contract talks with Manchester City have been put on hold until the summer.

The fiery midfielder, who is suspended for tomorrow’s clash with Sunderland had a deadline- day transfer request rejected after City refused to match his £40,000-a-week demands.

Barton subsequently admitted he had acted hastily and, following his man-of-the-match display in last month’s home win over Charlton, indicated he was close to committing his future to City.