Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce admits Joey Barton's latest controversy is "hugely disappointing".
"The whole thing is hugely disappointing," Allardyce said of the latest furore over Barton, his first signing as Newcastle manager.
But while there are claims the player is facing the sack, Allardyce - who had a bust-up with Barton at Wigan on Boxing Day - added: "I can't say any more at the moment. Obviously, it's something that may come up for discussion between me and the chairman in the future."