Barton escapes with fine
10 Oct 2006 - 14:52:33
The Football Association has fined Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton £2,000 and warned the midfielder as to his future conduct after the 24-year-old admitted a charge of improper conduct and/or bringing the game into disrepute.
The charge relates to an incident at the end of last month's 1-1 draw at Everton when Barton reacted to taunts from home fans by dropping his shorts.
Merseyside Police received a number of complaints about Barton's behaviour but decided against taking any formal action but the FA opted to charge the player.
City were unhappy with the FA's stance with spokesman Paul Tyrrell saying: "It is deeply disappointing that the Football Association have decided to charge Joey Barton with improper conduct.
"The player accepts that some elements of his behaviour following the game with Everton were ill-advised and he apologises to anybody who may have felt offended.
"He has been reminded of his responsibilities as a custodian of this football club but we do not believe his actions warrant any further investigation. It is our firm opinion that the matter should end there.
"We believe the FA should have taken into account the context of the incident and noted he behaved without any malice, and in a light-hearted manner.
"Joey wishes to thank the many Evertonians, City supporters and general football fans who have contacted the club this week with messages of support."