Joey Barton is often cast as the pantomime villain. But he really doesn’t help himself with his full-blooded approach to football.
However, two challenges by the Burnley midfielder in the Championship clash against Brighton crossed the line as far as many fans were concerned.
Barton was throwing his weight around for the title-chasing Clarets in the top-of-the-table game on the South Coast which finished 2-2.
But it seemed to be Brighton midfielder Beram Kayal that was bearing the brunt of Barton’s boot and elbows.
First there was this incident with Kayal in the 59th minute…
First, Joey Barton stamps on Kayal…. https://t.co/7jv9HTbpR6
— Cormac Byrne (@cor_byrne) April 2, 2016
Then Brighton players were claiming that Barton intentionally elbowed the Israeli in this challenge in the 66th minute…
Then, Joey Barton elbows Kayal…. Not even booked for either! https://t.co/SLYrIlLGPU
— Cormac Byrne (@cor_byrne) April 2, 2016
Barton’s name didn’t end up in the referee’s book for either, but fans on Twitter were going mad…
Joey Barton still a tosser then, how did he last the full 90?
— Thomas Elphick (@_thomaselphick) April 2, 2016
https://twitter.com/LukeBurns96/status/716259980098347008
Joey Barton should not be allowed to play professional football. Disgraceful player! #bhafc
— Mary Greet (@crazeemary82) April 2, 2016
Joey Barton got totally owned by @beramangela, so he decided to elbow, stamp and grizzle in response. Appalling coward. #bhafc
— Albion Roar BHAFC (@albionroar) April 2, 2016
Joey Barton getting away with absolute murder here… Someone give him a whack!
— Dean Cox (@dean_7cox) April 2, 2016
WATCH: Liverpool BOTTLED the title race 🤬 | Who will win the Premier League?
