RANGERS midfielder Joey Barton has spoken of his excitement at beginning the new season after the Premiership fixtures were released today.
The 33-year-old is currently working as a radio pundit at Euro 2016 and will reportedly miss the club's pre-season tour of the USA.
However, Barton underlined today that he can't wait to get going at Ibrox, with the Gers facing Hamilton Academical in their opening game of the season on August 6.
Read more: Celtic to host Rangers in September as full Premiership fixtures for 2016/17 are released
The first Old Firm derby of the campaign will take place at Celtic Park on September 10, with the fixture then repeating at Ibrox on December 31.
“Watching the Euros means you’re desperate to get out there kicking balls again so it’s a case of trying to keep your powder dry and save the energy and excitement for the opening games of the season," said Barton.
“Once those fixtures come out you start scheming and planning where the league could be won or lost and it’s a great incentive to have.
"All your training becomes sharper because you have dates and fixtures in the calendar that you’re working towards.
“It’s a huge boost for everyone, fans and players, because all of a sudden it feels like the season is upon you and it’s exciting times.”
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