Joey Barton apologises to Morten Gamst Pedersen over punch
Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has apologised to Blackburn’s Morten Gamst Pedersen and accepted his violent conduct charge for punching the midfielder.
Television replays showed Barton punching Pedersen during Newcastle’s 2-1 defeat to Blackburn on Wednesday night, and will now serve a three game ban and miss the games against Fulham, Bolton and Chelsea.
Barton said: “I would like to apologise to Chris Hughton [Newcastle manager], my teammates, our fans and of course to Morten Gamst Pedersen and Blackburn.”
After the referee failed to spot the incident, the Football Association decided to punish Barton, who is no stranger to controversy.
“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 said. “I hold my hands up. I reacted badly to the situation on Wednesday night and I deeply regret it.
“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.
“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,” Barton added.
The 28-year old admits he is battling against his “natural instinct” towards aggression.
“Everyone knows I have anger issues and on the pitch people are going to test my temperament,” he said. “I realise that. But people ask me, 'Have you not changed?' and I say, 'No, this is me, I have this aggression in me and I'm trying to handle it.
“I'll always be fighting to curb it and it's a battle for me. I have these anger issues but I know that when it turns to rage, like it did against Blackburn, it is not acceptable.
“It was a moment of stupidity from me. I shouldn't have reacted like that even if I was slightly provoked. I can't condone it and I deserve a ban. I am human but I have made a mistake I regret,” said Barton.
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