Barton back on track, praised by PFA

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has been praised by the Professional Footballers’ Association for responding to his critics in the best way possible - on the pitch.

Barton, who served time in jail this year for assault and affray, returned to action at the weekend and had Sunderland fans throw objects at him while he warmed up as a substitute.

The 26-year-old then scored the opener in yesterday’s 2-1 win over West Brom.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said: “Without any shadow of a doubt that is the right way to go about it, the football world will be pleased if he carries on doing well on the pitch. It was a good start against West Brom and we hope that continues.”

Taylor has backed Barton to overcome the hostile reception that he is certain to face at away grounds.

“Football crowds have banter with their opposition, that is the fun of the sport, as long as it isn’t vindictive and over the top,” Taylor added.

“Sometimes it is best to leave it to stewards and the club concerned to deal with it when it is over the top, and not look to create a reaction or cause trouble.”

Taylor feels Tony Adams’ appointment as manager of Portsmouth is an example to Barton and other players who have been through personal problems that they can have a long-term future in the game.

Adams was jailed in 1990 for drink-driving offences but got his career back on the right track and went on to play key roles for England and Arsenal before hanging up his boots, and he now has the chance to manage in the Barclays Premier League.

“Tony is the classic role model of someone who went off track and showed a great deal of self discipline to get his life back together,” Taylor added. “That is a great example.”