Joey Barton is a real coup for Rangers, says Ibrox assistant David Weir

The 33-year-old turned down the offer of Premier League football with Burnley to put pen-to-paper at Ibrox and will look to play an integral role for the Gers as they bid for the Premiership title next term.

READ MORE: Glasgow Rangers sign midfielder Joey Barton on two-year deal at Ibrox

Barton was named in the Championship Team of the Year as he helped the Clarets clinch the second tier crown south of the border.

And assistant manager Weir is delighted to have the former Man City, Newcastle, QPR and Marseille star on board for the new campaign.

He told rangers.co.uk: “I think it is a massive signing, I really do. I think for us to have the opportunity to sign a player of that calibre was probably outwith what we expected.

“So it’s been a long process, it’s been difficult, and to get him in the building I think says a lot about the work that has gone on.

“I’ve known him for a long time, playing against him and obviously watching him as well.

“He’s a fantastic talent and has all the attributes that we need within our team to add to what we have already got.

READ MORE: Glasgow Rangers sign midfielder Joey Barton on two-year deal at Ibrox

“So he ticks all the boxes in regards to both personality and ability.

“I think it’s a massive coup, as I said I think he’s possibly a player we thought was unachievable in regards to, in many people’s eyes, the best player in the Championship last season.

“He’s still improving, I think Joey will mention that himself and I think that is really important, and he is an ideal fit in regards to what we need for our team. So I think it ticks all the boxes.

READ MORE: Glasgow Rangers sign midfielder Joey Barton on two-year deal at Ibrox

“Obviously Joey’s profile is big, it adds to the club, but his ability is the most important thing and the level he played at last year in the Championship in England, which is a really difficult league, makes it a perfect signing for us.”