Barton won't be following in Carroll's footsteps

Liverpool target Joey Barton has given his best indication yet that he plans to stay at Newcastle next season.

Barton had made his doubts in the Newcastle administration quite clear, and is yet to sign a contract with the Toon.

Reports were linking the controversial star with a move to Liverpool, after Andy Carroll was sold to the Merseyside club for £35 million on January.

But Barton has come out to quash any rumours of a move to Liverpool or any other club, telling reporters he plans on driving the Toon to new heights next season, after the Northern club survived a relegation scare.

"We believed in the squad and the group that we could achieve what we've achieved and maybe, if one or two things had gone our way, we might have done a little bit better," Barton said.

"Next season is going to be as difficult a season, if not a lot more difficult, because teams will respect you a little bit more and the cup final atmosphere of every game goes.

"It's going to be a lot more difficult than what it's been this season. The test is on us to improve individually and as a collective to move forward."

Newcastle left back Jose Enrique is also reportedly high on Liverpool's transfer wish list, with Enrique and Barton both building goals around starlet striker Andy Carroll.

But Barton has given a hint that no amount of money or promise of accolades will tempt either star to walk away from the Newcastle squad, despite Liverpool being able to offer possible Champions League glory.

"Individuals win nothing and achieve nothing - thankfully we've got a good squad mentality and a good rapport between ourselves and we've been able to propel ourselves up the table the last few months," Barton said.

Source: Give Me Football.com

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