Joey Barton does press conference with French accent - watch

Joey Barton has laughed off criticism after speaking with a French accent during a press conference.

The controversial player is currently playing at Marseille on a season-long loan from Queens Park Rangers.


Barton : "La Ligue 1 est ennuyeuse" by evidenceprod

"Steve MaClaren eat your heart out...," Barton quipped on Twitter, referencing former England boss Steve McClaren's use of a Dutch accent after he took over at FC Twente for the first time in 2008.

He added: "In my defence, it is very difficult to do a press conference in Scouse for a room full of French journalists."

"The alternative is to speak like a 'Allo Allo!' character which is choose. Its simply a case of you had to be there. #youstupidwomen!

"I am christening this new language Bartonese. Steeeeevvvveeee would be proud!"

Barton has attracted attention beyond the world of football in recent years for his spats with reality TV stars and his outspoken column in The Big Issue.