Barton escapes bum rap

MANCHESTER CITY midfielder Joey Barton has spoken of his relief after escaping a ban for baring his backside at Everton fans and expressed regret at his actions.

The 24-year-old will be available for City’s match against Sheffield United on Saturday after an FA disciplinary commission fined him £2,000 (€3,000) and warned him as to his future conduct.

Barton said: “I have had a fair hearing and would like to thank the FA for that. I regret what I did but am grateful to the FA for recognising the provocation I had to endure.”