DEREK Llambias has issued a stern response to Joey Barton’s latest attack on the Newcastle hierarchy.
The Magpies managing director insisted the Queens Park Rangers midfielder’s comments were ill-timed given the death on Sunday of former United favourite Gary Speed, and disrespected employees of Mike Ashley’s company, Sports Direct.
In a podcast on a QPR fans’ website, Barton criticised owner Ashley and Llambias over a range of topics.
These included the suspension of his wages and an alleged attempt to make him sign a less-lucrative contract while in prison for assault; perceived failure to reinvest in the playing squad; and an issue over bonuses, wherein Barton compared players to Ashley’s Sports Direct staff.
But Llambias’ statement said: “In a week when one of Newcastle United’s most beloved footballers passed away, it is disappointing that once again Joey Barton makes the headlines.
“It is also unfortunate that Joey chose to draw such a disparaging comparison between himself and the employees of Sports Direct, who through hard work and dedication are the recipients of one of the most generous bonus schemes in UK retailing.
“It may not be a lot of money to Joey, but over 2000 Sports Direct employees earning £20,000 will receive shares worth over £44,000 over the next two years.
“However, in this week of all weeks, we really do not wish to engage in a public war of words with Joey Barton.
“Our legal advisors are dealing with the matter now and we would encourage Joey to concentrate on his football at Queens Park Rangers.
“Our thoughts and attentions this week remain firmly with the family and friends of Gary Speed.”
To that end, the club have announced plans to pay tribute to Speed before Saturday’s Premier League game against Chelsea at St James’ Park.
Prior to kick-off, a singer will lead the crowd in a rendition of ‘Bread of Heaven’, a traditional Welsh hymn, during which supporters in the East Stand will be asked to hold aloft black and white cards depicting the number 11, Speed’s United shirt number.
Thereafter, a minute’s applause will be observed, and the matchday programme will contain a four-page tribute to the former Newcastle midfielder.
