EPL Exclusive Interview: Joey Barton

A chilly evening in Newcastle witnessed Joey Barton giving an interview to ESPN-World Sport.

The interview was hosted by Salaar Shamsi, who has requested for this material to be posted on the following networks only: Bleacher Report, We Talk Football, Soccernet, Sport-Digital, and The Goal Network.

The location for the Interview was the Tyne Walk, which is located opposite the site of Newcastle United's home stadium, St.James Park. I, Warren Halley from Sky Sports covered the interview and take all writing credits for it. ESPN-World Sport and Sky Sports cover all exclusive rights over the following material, which may not be republished or edited.

SS: Joey,thanks for joining us.

JB: Thanks for having me here.

SS: Joey, you were born on Merseyside. Why did you begin you're career in Manchester?

JB: Actually, I started out at Everton. But when I was released, City came calling and at that time, I had no other option.

SS: You have always been involved in controversy. You have three jail sentences against you. How do you explain your actions?

JB:To be honest, I've been a bit unfortunate at times or simply at the wrong place. But from where I come, we lose it quickly. With time, I've matured, and I won't have things like that again.

SS: Is it true that you left Manchester City due to the circumstances after your blow up with Dabo?

JB: Not really. I wished it had not happened, but he was having a real go at me and I'm not the one to stand down. I actually came here because of Sam [Allardyce]. He convinced me saying he wanted to win trophies and I was a part of his plans, (laughs), but he did not stay on.

SS: What has been the high point of your career so far?

JB: It has to be my England game, but I'm hopeful for better times.

SS: Kevin Keegan has not won a single game yet and Newcastle seems to be in the relegation battle. How's the mood amongst the players?

JB: (Laughs)..the lads aren't even thinking of going down. Actually, Kevin's made everybody sure of his plans. If you see our last couple of games, especially the Birmingham game, you'll see the lads are back in the shape and we're really going to have a go at whoever we get from now till the end of the season.

SS: Have you settled in well at Newcastle now?

JB: I was disturbed by the prison sentence, but the players and fans have had me feel at home now. And once the goals start flowing and we start winning, it will all change.

SS: Well, Joey for your sake and for the Toon we hope they do.

JB: (both laugh)...They will,with time...

Writing Credits : Warren Halley (Sky)

Visual Coverage : Steven Minton,Roy Natington,Francis Taylor (World Sport)

Questions and Set Up : David Newton (Soccernet),Wade Thomas (World Sport)