Squatters have broken into the house of Queens Park Rangers footballer Joey Barton.

Barton, 29, posted the news on his Twitter account this afternoon, vowing to take action against those responsible.

"Just heard the news some squatters had broken into my house last night and changed the locks. The cheeky bastards," Barton tweeted.

"Didn't know squatters could break in? Anyone know the law regarding these creatures? House was secured and locked, all correct hoarding outside as well. They have left already I think. What a set of cheeky f**kers though?

"Might go to the nearest pet shop and purchase 20 tarantulas, 20 snakes and as many rat as I can get my hands on, pop them through the letter box, then we'll see who the clever one is. Be warned squatters...ur time is up."

It is understood that the squatters have now departed his property.