Paris Saint-Germain have leapt to the defence of defender Thiago Silva following Joey Barton's criticism of him on Twitter.
The Marseille midfielder, on loan from QPR, posted on the social networking site that Silva was an 'overweight ladyboy' who is overrated like many other Brazilians.
Despite Barton later posting that Silva had played a brilliant match in the 2-2 Champions League draw with Barcelona on Tuesday night, PSG were full of support for their player following the negative comments.
"In the last few hours, on social networks, unacceptable remarks have been made by Olympique Marseille player Joey Barton against Paris St Germain player Thiago Silva," read a statement on PSG's official website.
"These attacks are serious and go beyond mere verbal jousting. The directors of the club, the players and the coaching staff are supportive of Thiago Silva, and cannot accept such statements.
"They reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the values of respect that should govern our sport.
"Thiago Silva and Paris St Germain reserve the right to take any action they deem necessary."
