Barton apologises for brain snap

13 May 2012 20:30

Joey Barton has apologised to QPR fans after being sent off for violent conduct during their Premier League clash with Manchester City.

The former City man appeared to elbow Carlos Tevez on the edge of the Rangers' penalty area, with the linesman on the far side of the pitch spotting the incident immediately.

Following the brandishing of the red card, Barton kicked out at City striker Sergio Aguero and then appeared to attempt to headbutt Vincent Kompany, before confronting substitute Mario Balotelli on his way off the ground.

"Can do nothing but apologise to the players and the fans," Barton said via his Twitter account. "Still don't think its a sending off. Tried to take 1 of their players with me....

"Still not my proudest moment but who gives a f*ck, we are safe..........and that is all that matters."

Barton denied he lost control following his dismissal, and indicated he remains unrepentant for his violent reaction to the decision.

"The head was never gone at any stage, once I'd been sent off, one of our players suggested I should try to take 1 of theirs with me......Never worked but god loves a trier. #reallynotbother #wearesafe," he added.

QPR lost the match 3-2 but retained their top flight status, as City scored twice in injury time to claim their first ever Premier League title on goal difference on a day of incredible drama.

Barton incurs an automatic four-match ban for the straight red dismissal due to a previous dismissal against Norwich, but his violent reaction makes further punishment likely.