QPR have confirmed that Joey Barton has been stripped of the club captaincy following his violent outburst against Manchester City on the final day of last season.
The former City and Newcastle midfielder has also been fined six weeks’ wages.
Barton, who kicked Sergio Aguero and aimed a headbutt at Vincent Kompany after being sent off for elbowing Carlos Tevez, will be unavailable for the first 12 matches of the coming season through suspension.
A club statement quoted Barton as saying: “My behaviour was wrong and I accept the punishment that has been imposed upon me as a result.
“I apologise to the manager, my team-mates and of course the QPR fans for my actions. I also apologise to the Manchester City players, staff and supporters.”
Barton, who will not be part of QPR’s pre-season trip to Asia, has also been warned that any future serious indiscipline could lead to him being sacked.
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This post was last modified on 28/06/2012
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No disrespect but Joey Barton needs to realise that there are thousands of young kids out there who worship him. He needs to respect his job and his club. He is a good footballer and that is being spoiled by his aggression on the pitch.