6 May 2009

Newcastle United suspend Joey Barton

7:08 am on 6 May 2009

Newcastle United has suspended Joey Barton until further notice in a move that looks set to signal the end to the controversial midfielder's career at the Premier League football club.

The announcement followed reports of a dressing-room confrontation with temporary manager Alan Shearer after Monday's 3-0 loss to Liverpool at Anfield.

Shearer had publicly accused Barton of letting himself and the club down by getting himself sent off in the closing stages of the match for a reckless challenge on Xabi Alonso.

The red card ensured Barton will miss Newcastle's three remaining matches which will determine whether or not the club says in the Premier League.

Barton has missed most of this season through a combination of injury and suspension after being given a second chance following two assault convictions last year.