I know he’s a scummy little scrote, but I thinkNewcastlehave made a massive blunder in releasing Joey Barton. This comes on the back of them also letting Kevin Nolan go. What are they thinking? These two players (along with Carroll before he got injured, then sold) were the standout performers atNewcastlelast season. It seemed Barton was maturing on the field, too, and there were few if any reports of off-field shenanigans.
I think Barton would be a strong addition on the field to most teams (what Arsenal need?) – the only question is if he’d be disruptive in the dressing room.
I will be amazed if 'Arry doesn't make an offer. Barton is an 'Arry type signing. Besides, Sandro is out for a while so we need cover in that area of midfield. Diarra is apparently flying in today too, so that should give Spurs even more bite.
Hopefully we can get Samba as well (assuming the southern Scum go for Cahill).
Any side with Barton, Diarra and Samba in it is going to put the fear of God into some sides, given the expectations they'll have lumps kicked out of them.
Believe it or not, Barton has been sent off only three times in his career
Which brings me to Liverpool. I think one of Liverpool's big problems this season is going to be its powder puff midfield. Adam, Henderson et al are decent enough players, but there's no toughness there in the shape of a Sandro etc. I suppose Lucas might fit the bill, but that would just about be it.