... Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley wanted him off the books.
The 30-year-old is currently on loan at Marseille after picking up alengthy ban for his misconduct in the season-ending game against Manchester City.
Saying he only signed for QPR because of the money, is hardly going to impress new boss Harry Redknapp.
Barton was on £60,000-per-week at Newcastle - so his plea of hardship doesn't wash with the Toon Army.
Joey Barton: "When I went to QPR it was a choice dictated by money.
"I didn't like what I had done, and I swore I'd never do that again.
"It was the first time in my life that I had taken a decision for money. I did it because my partner was due to give birth - but I did not feel good about it."