Shaun Derry: 'Queens Park Rangers have missed Joey Barton'

Shaun Derry has conceded that Joey Barton would have "improved" Queens Park Rangers this season.

One-time England international Barton was allowed to join French club Marseille on a season-long loan basis in August 2012 following his conduct on the final day of last season that resulted in him receiving a 12-match suspension.

However, Derry believes that QPR, who are currently seven points from safety, would have been better off if Barton had remained at Loftus Road.

"There have been times this season where the guys haven't given 100%. He'd have improved the squad," he told The Sun.

Barton has scored once in 21 appearances for Marseille.