Barton strike finds favour with faithful

JOEY BARTON restored his reputation among the Manchester City faithful by rasping home a brilliant 30-yard strike to put the Blues on their way to a thrilling Premiership win over Charlton.

Ten days after he was jeered by his own supporters after handing in a transfer request, Barton ran away clutching his badge in jubilation after a superb goal which ultimately proved decisive. And he was rewarded with an improved contract offer from manager Stuart Pearce.

Richard Dunne gave City a half-time lead and the hosts were able to hold onto their advantage despite conceding twice in a four-goal spell at the start of the second period which saw both Darren and Marcus Bent convert for the visitors and £6 million (8.8m) new-boy Georgios Samaras nod home his first City goal.