Joey Barton has refused to rule out a return to Newcastle United.

With the Magpies having a vacancy in the managerial position after the departure of Rafa Benitez, Barton has been linked to the role.

He is currently at Fleetwood Town, where he helped them to 11th place in League One last season.

Barton says he his happy at Fleetwood, but would not deny that a move to Newcastle at some point would be appealing.

"It's the first I have heard of it. It is a phenomenal football club but I am a young manager learning my trade," Barton told Sky Sports.

"I love everything I am doing at Fleetwood, there is a great group of players, great group of people I am working with.

"I am happy with where I am. I am learning and it is important that I continue to learn if I am going to fulfil my potential as a coach.

"I had four great years there as a player so it is a club that is very close to my heart. But on the flip side, Rafa Benitez going out, it is a tough act to follow. He did an incredible job there and the Premier League is a tough league.

"If Newcastle ever come calling, for any manager by the way, it is tough (to refuse). But I am happy where I am. I do feel I need a period of time to really learn my trade. We cross those bridges when we come to them."