Joey Barton apologises for punch
Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has apologised to Blackburn Rovers’ Morten Gamst Pedersen, after he punched the player during their 1-2 Premier defeat at St James Park on Wednesday 10 November.
The midfielder accepted the violent conduct charge and told the BBC, "I would like to apologise to [Magpies boss] Chris Hughton, my team-mates, our fans and of course to Morten Gamst Pedersen and Blackburn."
Barton admitted that it had been a mistake to lash out at the Blackburn midfielder. After the match, the player was handed out a three match suspension.
Barton will now miss the Premier League fixtures with Bolton, Fulham and Chelsea.
"I fully accept that I was in the wrong on this occasion and accept the charge that the Football Association have brought against me," Barton added.
Barton struck Pedersen in the midriff, but the referee Mike Jones missed the incident.
"I hold my hands up, I reacted badly to the situation on Wednesday night and I deeply regret it," said the Newcastle midfielder.
Barton has had discipline problems before and once again Newcastle manager Chris Hughton will be unhappy with the midfielder’s conduct.
The influential central midfielder stated that he was working hard to control his discipline. The player appeared to be showing a new sense of maturity this season on and off the pitch, but this latest incident is another set-back for Barton.
"I have been working very hard to keep that side of my game under control and I think it has showed in the way I have been able to get on and enjoy my football this season."
The midfielder admitted that he was hoping to move on from the incident and to try and win his place back in the team after his suspension
"I look forward to trying to get back into the team once my suspension is over and helping the club maintain its good start to the season."
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