The battle of wills continues as Barton is considering a contract offer from the west London club after completing a medical.
The outspoken midfielder was placed on a free transfer by Mike Ashley earlier this month after publicly criticising the club on Twitter.
But, with the fans and the manager showing their backing to the player ... it's only Ashley who has a problem!
So far only QPR's interest has led to an offer for Barton, who tweeted last night he needed "some thinking time and space" to ponder the offer.
Alan Pardew: "I think that's where Joey is if I'm honest. I don't think I can add to that.
"He knows he can come back here and we'll take care of him.
"I think he trusts me as a manager. He trusts the staff here and has a bond with the players.
"At the same time he's got an offer that is making him think to go elsewhere."