We told boss of doubts - Joey Barton

Dec 13 2010 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

JOEY Barton has questioned Alan Pardew’s appointment as Newcastle United’s manager. But by doing it to his face, the midfielder believes the Magpies have been able to draw a line under matters and move on.

Barton has been open in his disappointment with the decision to sack Chris Hughton, dedicating his man of the match award to his old boss and coach Paul Barron, also shown the door.

But Barton was quick to draw a distinction between dismay at Hughton’s treatment and hostility towards Pardew.

“We don’t know the reasons behind Chris leaving,” said the scorer of Newcastle’s second goal in the 3-1 win over Liverpool. “We were told it was to push the club onto the next level and a lot of us questioned Alan’s appointment. We told him what we said – none of us would say anything behind your back that we wouldn’t say to your face.

“We said, ‘We’re disappointed about Chris going, he was held in such affection because he’s a good footballing guy. But as long as you’re open and honest with us we’ll have no problems.’

“Alan’s not tried to rock the boat. He’s said, ‘Look, stick to what you do best’. He’s seen us from afar, knew what kind of team we were and what we’re about and he’s not changed anything massively. It’s been a few minor tweaks. There’s a lot of stories going round about our dressing room and a backlash but we care too much about each other to act with anything other than professionalism. It’s not Alan’s fault Chris got sacked.

“The board decided to do what they decided to do, but the game was already revved up without Chrissie losing his job. It’s just nice hearing the fans appreciate how much he’s missed.

“It’s a cruel game, football. You think you’re the most important person in the world and we all like to think we’re vital to football clubs, but the game just moves on without you. When you’re gone, you’re gone – ships in the night.

“The most important part of the whole process is the club and this will be here long after we’ve finished playing.”