Queens Park Rangers will reportedly sack Joey Barton if he is found guilty of affray.

The 29-year-old midfielder was arrested and bailed on Monday regarding an altercation which took place outside a Liverpool nightclub.

Barton, who was also banned by the FA for 12 matches for his conduct in the Hoops' final-day clash with Manchester City, has three years remaining on his £70,000-per-week contract.

Club officials are believed to have consulted lawyers about the possibility of sacking Barton after he received the hefty ban, but they were informed that the suspension was not reasonable grounds for dismissal.

However, The Sun understands that the club would be able to release Barton from his £11m contract without paying him any compensation if he is found guilty in court, as it would constitute gross misconduct.

Barton, who moved to Loftus Road on a free transfer from Newcastle United in August, has made 32 appearances for the London club.