Partial view lets Barton off the hook

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton will escape punishment for his controversial challenge on Dickson Etuhu in the Wear-Tyne derby.

Referee Martin Atkinson did not get a full view of Barton’s studs-high tackle on the Sunderland player in Saturday’s 1-1 draw but saw enough to decide no action need to be taken – a decision which has let Barton off the hook.