Barton 'could still face FA charge'
Joey Barton could still face a Football Association charge despite Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor’s decision not to lodge an official complaint over an alleged remark made by the Newcastle midfielder during Monday night’s match at St James’ Park.
Reports this morning alleged that Barton made a racist comment during a confrontation involving the pair following a first-half foul.
However, it is understood that Agbonlahor has told Villa manager Martin O’Neill that he does not want to take the issue to FA disciplinary chiefs.
But despite the England Under-21 star’s unwillingness to press the issue, the FA are awaiting observations from the player and Aston Villa before deciding if Barton should be charged.
The club were contacted by the FA this morning and have a week to provide their account of events.
Once they have done so, the FA’s Football Regulation Department will decide whether further action is required.
It is understood there is a determination at Soho Square to deal with the issue as quickly as possible, and the FA have clarified that they do not require any formal complaint to be made in order to pursue their enquiries.
