Sunderland fans have been giving HITC their opinions on former Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton’s 18 month ban.
In a career that has often drawn headlines for all the wrong reasons, Joey Barton is a player who splits opinions among all football fans – not just those of clubs he’s played for. A midfield general, Barton has played for clubs including as Newcastle United, Manchester City, Rangers and Burnley.
But now the midfielder’s future in the top flight could be in doubt, after was banned from playing for 18 months by the FA after betting on football games over 1000 times during the last decade.
Burnley’s Joey Barton signs his autograph for a fan
So what does the future hold now for Joey Barton? Top flight football might be a big ask after 18 months out of the game (although Barton is planning to appeal), especially considering the midfielder is now 34-years-old.
Knowing him mostly for playing for their biggest rival Newcastle, Sunderland fans have got some interesting views on the subject of Joey Barton. HITC Sport went to meet Sunderland fans to find out (see video above).
Sunderland fans
Asked if it was right to ban Barton, one Sunderland fan said “Yes, so he should be. We need to keep the game clean.” Another fan said “Rightly so! He shouldn’t be allowed to bet on his team losing. 18 months? It’s not enough!”
“Well I’m not a big fan of Barton, as a person or a footballer” said one Sunderland fan. “No one likes Barton in Sunderland” added another fan.
Burnley’s Joey Barton
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