Newcastle United Football Club News

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52,193

Barton dedicates goal to fans

30 Oct 2008 - 07:09:58

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Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton has dedicated his goal in the 2-1 win against West Brom to all the people he has let down in the past.

The 26-year-old, who was making his first start in almost six months, opened the scoring from the penalty spot as Joe Kinnear's side finally returned to winning ways after failing to clinch victory in their previous eight matches in all competitions.

The former Manchester City player said: "That was for all our fans and all the people I have let down. My only wish now that it is the first of many.

"Once the referee pointed to the spot, I really fancied it - although I know a lot of the other players did as well. It was never an issue. I am always one to step up to the plate.

"One thing that can never be levelled at me is that I have lacked courage.

"Through my own stupidity, I have had to come back from things, and that has shaped me for what I have got to do."

Barton, who was named man-of-the-match by the sponsors, added: "Perhaps I got the award because I picked up a bit of the sentimental vote.

"But individual awards and club plaudits are not really for me.

"It is more important that Newcastle United get the success it deserves and craves, and if we win 2-1 and I don't score or get the man-of-the-match award, I would take that every time."