Barton in crimewatch drama

Joey Barton’s eventful weekend did not end with a slap from Arsenal debutant Gervinho.

The 28-year-old Newcastle midfielder found himself cast in the dual role of victim and villain in quick succession on the pitch, and then at the centre of a debate over his conduct during his side’s 0-0 opening day draw with the Gunners.

However, the drama was to continue overnight when he was roused from his post-match slumber by an intruder trying to break into a neighbour’s house.

He tweeted: “5.26am was awoken by a banging sound, burglar attempting to break in to neighbour’s house. Needless to say, he was disturbed and apprehended.

“He was so subtle, he attempted to put a massive log through the window in broad daylight. Police have him now 4th break in of the night.

“What with the burglar and Arsenal game, it’s been an incident-packed 24hrs.”

Earlier, Barton had been involved in a number of rows on Twitter with journalists including Arsenal fan Piers Morgan. He also had an exchange with Jack Wilshere over the sending-off of Gervinho.

Barton has rarely been far from controversy for too long during his career to date, and is currently at loggerheads with the Magpies’ hierarchy after criticising their summer recruitment policy in the wake of being told he will not be offered a new contract.