QPR were delighted with Adel Taarabt's performance in their draw with Newcastle United.
Taarabt produced his best performance since the Rs' promotion on Monday night.
QPR boss Neil Warnock said: "I thought Taarabt had his best game on and off the ball with Barton behind him. I had a chat with Adel about the captaincy last week and straight away he was bright about it. I think he appreciates how far we've come and the need to drive on. To do that we need someone who is our leader. I thought he [Barton] epitomised what we are about."
Rs striker DJ Campbell added: "He was brilliant and it is the best I have seen him play since I have been here.
"Adel has ability, everyone can see that, but with the players we've got now you have to raise your game. He was brilliant and you can't ask more of him if he plays like that every week."
