QPR skipper Joey Barton blasted back at Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer after his dismissal at Manchester City.

Shearer criticised Barton for his one-man wreckage at Etihad.

And the midfielder replied on Twitter: "Shearers still on my case... I know I ****** up Alan, thanks for stating the obvious.

"Whilst were both stating the obvious about each other, can I just say for the record what a great player u were. Well better me...

"But I have a better hair(which is not hard), wear well better shirts on TV and have a personality(something u lack).

"I really don't like that p****, in fact I honestly despise him... Goodnight."

Despite signing off with 'Goodnight', Barton returned to Twitter an hour later, adding: "I'd take it off Hansen and @GaryLineker but not from that bell, same fella that stamped on Neil Lennon,then threatened FA if they banned him

"...That he would retire from international football. No sorry, not having him, never have. Selfish, boring man him. He can do one...

"My favourite memory of him though is when he dropped his spuds when Keano put it on him. Goodnight Al, sleep well matey..."