Joey Barton has been appointed as head coach of Fleetwood Town and will take charge of the club when his ban from football ends on June 2.
The 35-year-old was banned by the FA last year after being found guilty of breaching betting rules.
Barton’s role at Fleetwood will be his first as a coach and follows a playing career in which he represented Manchester City, Newcastle and Burnley, among other clubs.
Barton – who has signed a three-year deal at Highbury Stadium – said: “I’m very excited by the challenge and the project at Fleetwood Town. It’s a club I’ve known for a long time, and a chairman I already have a very good relationship with.
“My first job in management was always going to be a big decision for me and I’m delighted with the opportunity ahead – I’m joining a club with big ambitions.
“I’m looking forward to getting started on June 2.”
Fleetwood chairman Andy Pilley added: “This is a huge appointment for Fleetwood and one I’m very excited about.
“Joey not only brings a host of experience and profile, but I also feel he has the potential to become one of the best in the new generation of coaches.
“He’s someone I’ve known for a number of years and I’m convinced he’s ready to make the step into management, and that he will be a huge success.
“Today’s news signals a new chapter for Fleetwood which starts on June 2, and one which we are all excited about.”
