Source: Northern_Echo
Barton launches angry Twitter rant
JOEY Barton last night launched a strongly-worded Twitter attack on the Newcastle United hierarchy and hinted at the simmering discontent that is hampering the club's preparations for the new season.[LNB] Within minutes of leaving the field at the end of Newcastle's 3-2 friendly defeat to Leeds United, Barton issued three Tweets that exposed his unhappiness at recent events at St James' Park.[LNB] He later posted a fourth comment claiming he did not want to leave the club, but citing a fear that the forthcoming season could turn into another battle against relegation.[LNB] The Magpies midfielder also expressed support for Jose Enrique, who was fined around £100,000 for similarly critical messages that were made via Twitter during the club's recent tour of the United States.[LNB] Enrique criticised the club's lack of ambition and reluctance to spend money during the current transfer window, and Barton voiced similar sentiments as he described Newcastle as a "once great club".[LNB] Barton tweeted: "If only we as players could tell the fans exactly how it is, without them above fining us lots of money. There will be a time and a place.[LNB] "If it wouldn't effect team morale and cause unrest within the dressing room, am certain Jose's comments would be the tip of the iceberg...[LNB] "And again it would be left to those magnificent fans to pick up the remnants of their once great football club.[LNB] "If I wanted to leave, I'd just come out and say 'I want to leave'. Things need addressing as am not prepared to go through a relegation again."[LNB] Barton ended his third message with the hash tag #hadenoughofcertainpeople, a comment that suggests his frustration has been building for a while.[LNB] Newcastle officials are aware of last night's developments, and a formal response is anticipated later today.[LNB]
