SACK HIM

Sunday Mirror, Jul 6, 2008 by BRIAN McNALLY

NEWCASTLE UNITED face an angry backlash over the Joey Barton affair.

Furious fans believe that the jailed Magpies midfielder should be sacked after a second conviction for assault. Some season ticket holders have even threatened not to take up their seats next season if the disgraced Barton stays at the club. Newcastle have announced that they will hold talks with the England international when he is released from a six-month prison sentence - probably this week.

But Frank Gilmour of the Independent Newcastle United Supporters Association feels the Magpies are making a huge mistake and warns that Barton could face an angry reception from the Toon Army if he is allowed to pull on a black and white shirt again.

Gilmour said: "In any other job Barton's shameful actions would have meant instant dismissal.

"As a union man I represent employees at industrial tribunals and if an ordinary worker had done what Barton did on two occasions I would simply be unable to defend them.

"I have seen his assault in Liverpool city centre on CCTV and can't believe that Newcastle are planning to hold talks with him and his representatives. He should be sacked on the spot."

Derek Wake, a season ticket holder for 25 years, believes that manager Kevin Keegan was wrong to support Barton and provide him with a character reference.

Wake said: "They should tear up his contract. He should not be allowed to be part of a great club like ours."