Newcastle United Football Club News

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

• Ground:St James' Park
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Kinnear stands up for Barton

26 Oct 2008 - 10:57:41

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Newcastle United boss Joe Kinnear sympathised with Joey Barton after the controversial midfielder had missiles thrown at him by Sunderland fans during the Tyne-Wear derby.

The ex-Manchester City player was targeted by Black Cats fans during United's 2-1 defeat at the Stadium of Light as he warmed up on the sidelines before coming on as a late substitute.

Barton responded by kissing his badge which seemed to wind up the Sunderland fans even more and the player had to be sent back to the dug-out by police.

Kinnear said of the incident after the match: "It's a bit unfair, then, isn't it? It's not Joey Barton's fault, is it?

"He's been in the thick of everything this week. Every mass murder that has gone on in this country, his name has been associated with.

"I'm disappointed with the result though, obviously, because of the immense disappointment for the supporters and everyone else.

"But looking at the bigger picture, we were beaten, and we have to play West Brom on Tuesday night and get maximum points."