Marseille sporting director Jose Anigo has insisted that Joey Barton is ready to start tomorrow's Ligue 1 clash with Lille.

The 30-year-old has now served his 12-match domestic ban following his meltdown against Manchester City on the final day of the Premier League season.

However, Barton has already made his debut for the club in the Europa League - starting all five of Les Phoceens' games - and Anigo is keen to see the 30-year-old in action in the league.

"He is ready and physically well," Anigo told Le 10 Sport. "I'm curious as to what he can do but from what we saw in the European games, he will help us.

"He brings creativity to the team. It's important for us to have players like him. Especially now as we have a limited squad."

Barton is on a season-long loan from Queens Park Rangers.

Written by
Michael Penkman