Magpies weigh up Barton's future

Jailed midfielder could be sacked

Last updated: 8th June 2008

Magpies weigh up Barton's future

Barton: Could have contract cancelled

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Newcastle chairman Chris Mort has revealed the club are in talks about the future of jailed midfielder Joey Barton.

Widespread reports on Sunday claim Newcastle are considering sacking Barton unless he takes a 50 per cent pay cut.

The former Manchester City man is currently serving a six-month prison sentence for assault and affray leading to calls for Newcastle to axe the England international.

Newcastle are now locked in talks with Barton's representatives about his future and Mort admits a termination of his contract could be an option.

Sack

"We are in discussions with his representatives about what is best for the club going forward," Mort told The Sunday Mirror.

"Obviously, we are not going to ignore the fact that he is currently in jail.

"It is too early to say whether Joey being sacked is a possible outcome but we are talking about what the future holds."