Bristol Rovers reportedly closing in on Joey Barton appointment - but not before tonight's game against Portsmouth

Former Fleetwood boss Joey Barton has been linked with the vacant manager's job at Bristol Rovers.

Negotiations have apparently progressed since talks with the former Fleetwood boss’ representatives began over the weekend.

The website, Football Insider, claims his appointment could be announced within days – ending their search for a successor to Paul Tisdale, who was sacked last week.

However, there’s no suggestion Barton could be in place earlier and in time for Pompey’s visit to the Memorial Ground tonight, with caretaker boss Tommy Widdrington remaining in charge for the League One fixture.

The Blues travel west for their first game since news broke on Monday that Kenny Jackett will take a temporary leave of absence for health reasons.

Pompey’s manager is expected to be present at the game and does not sign off from his normal Fratton Park duties until Thursday.

It remains to be seen if Barton will be in attendance if negotiations are as advanced as suggested.

Former Motherwell boss Stephen Robinson had emerged as a potential candidate and Bristol Live have reported that he impressed the Gas’ board with his credentials.

However, it appears Barton is the man Rovers are likely to appoint in their bid to climb away from the League One relegation zone.

Tonight’s hosts currently sit 20th in the table and are without a win since defeating Blackpool 2-1 on January 2.

They’ve picked up two points from a possible 24 since then and failed to scored in five of those eight matches played.

On the other hand, Pompey go into this evening’s game sitting fourth in the table and with a real chance of climbing into the top two if results go their way tonight.

They are currently one point behind second-placed Hull (49 points) but with two games in hand,

Only fellow promotion rivals Peterborough (49) are in action tonight, with the Posh travelling to Gillingham for a 6pm kick-off.

Fifth-placed Doncaster Rovers (48) host Accrington tomorrow, while Hull travel to Wigan.

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