Newcastle bad boy accepts three-match ban for violent conduct

Newcastle bad boy Joey Barton has accepted a violent conduct charge after punching Blackburn's Morten Gamst Pedersen on Wednesday at St James’ Park.

The Football Association acted after referee Mike Fones missed the incident when the midfielder struck the Blackburn player in the midriff.

Barton (28) apologised for his behaviour and accepted the three-match ban. He will miss Premier League games against Fulham, Bolton and Chelsea.

"I would like to apologise to [Magpies boss] Chris Hughton, my team-mates, our fans and of course to Morten Gamst Pedersen and Blackburn," Barton said.