By Tyne-Talk
November 5 2008
Joey Barton has always been at the centre of controversy. There is no doubt about it that where trouble lies Barton has been. However, Barton appears to have gone from targeting others to being the target. Since he returned to action he has had coins thrown at him and been verbally abused by the fans of the opposing clubs. The verbal abuse is unsurprising and something Joey should have been prepared for after causing so much trouble both on and off the field in the last few years. However, the problems now lie on the field where there seems to be a blind eye being turned to possible advantageous decisions and then a sharp eye on the not so necessary decisions.
Barton missed out on a free kick at the weekend when his opposition player Gabriel Agbonlahor managed to concede one, despite being in the wrong. Later in the game Barton was seen raising his hand inappropriately to the player which was missed by the Referee but picked up by the cameras. This was investigated by the FA and dismissed. His latest investigation comes after allegations coming from the Midlands that Aston Villa are set to file a complaint of racism against the former Manchester City midfielder.
Setanta have handed over the footage and there have been some very important meetings at Villa Park between management and the board.
Barton was later booked during the match for a separate incident. It would be very interesting to see where these latest allegation have stemmed from as at the moment it appears that Barton has gone from being the bully to the bullied.
Many would suggest that this is something he deserves, others believe that he has served his time and should be left to get on which his job (albeit well paid and extremely privileged).
