Villa rule out Barton complaint
05 Nov 2008 - 16:21:26
Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has decided not to lodge an official complaint over alleged remarks Joey Barton made to him during Monday's 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United.
It had been reported that Barton made a racist comment to the Villa winger following a first-half altercation between the pair.
However, it is believed Agbonlahor has told Villa manager Martin O'Neill that he does not want to take the issue to the Football Association, so the matter would appear to be closed.
An FA spokesman had earlier said: "We are aware of the rumours circulating but it is difficult to comment any further on something that has no further substance to it.
"We take seriously any allegations of racist abuse and will obviously act accordingly if we receive any official complaint from Aston Villa."
Earlier in the week, the FA said the former Manchester City midfielder would not be charged despite appearing to flick at Agbonlahor's face during the game.