Barton returns to Dons as player-coach

Defender Warren Barton has re-joined Wimbledon in a player-coach capacity until the end of the season, having begun the campaign with fellow Division One strugglers Derby County.

Barton, 34, left the Rams by mutual consent earlier this season and had a spell at Queen’s Park Rangers before joining training sessions at Premiership club Leicester City.

Now he is looking to attain the UEFA "A" coaching badge and said he was delighted to be helping out former club Wimbledon, who are bottom of Division One.

And Barton is poised to make his home debut for the Dons on Tuesday when they host Nottingham Forest, managed by Joe Kinnear – Barton’s boss for three-and-a-half years during Wimbledon’s days at Selhurst Park.

Barton said: “Wimbledon have done a lot for me in my career, they gave me my big chance and I’m pleased to be giving them something back.

“We’ve got Nottingham Forest at home on Tuesday, so I’m sure the travelling Forest fans will give me a good reception but if I can help Wimbledon as a player and coach, then I’ll be delighted.”