Burnley boss Sean Dyche has said that Joey Barton has the ingredients required to make a success of himself in his first managerial job with Fleetwood Town.
The 35-year-old, who most recently played for the Clarets prior to his ban for breaching betting rules, is to take charge of the League One side from the summer on a deal that runs through until 2021.
Barton has been involved in a number of distasteful incidents both on and off the field during his career, but Dyche insists that the unexpected appointment could yet pay off.
"I don't think it's such a surprise to me, he has a thirst to coach and manage," he told reporters. "He's a strong professional, Joey. He was first-class [at Burnley] and there is a student of the game in him.
"He wants to learn and progress. He's got an opinion for sure, a strong opinion, but he doesn't think he's got every answer and he's willing to listen and take advice.
"Fleetwood are a very good club but you could argue he could have waited and tried to get in at a higher level. But he's accepted the challenge and he's willing to get his hands dirty. I've played in those divisions and it's not easy."
Fleetwood chairman Andy Pilley has claimed that the incoming manager will be a "huge asset" to the club.
