Arsenal Football Club News

• Nickname:Gunners
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• Manager:Arsene Wenger

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Gallas bemused by Barton ban

07 Sep 2008 - 16:27:59

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Arsenal captain William Gallas believes controversial Newcastle United midfielder got away lightly with his punishment for assaulting Ousmane Dabo.

The Football Association handed Barton a 12-game ban, six of which are suspended, for a training-ground assault on his former Manchester City team-mate.

Gallas is unimpressed with the punishment though, telling the Sunday Express: "In my opinion it is not long enough, especially when you think about his attack on Ousmane Dabo and everything he has done besides.

"I don't understand the Football Association."

Barton was involved in an incident with Samir Nasri during last weekend's Premier League clash between the Gunners and Newcastle, with Gallas adding: "The moment Barton came on to the pitch he made a bad challenge on Samir Nasri.

"Samir responded with an act that maybe wasn't especially nice. But bearing in mind the player he did it to, then fair enough."