Barton in Wenger´s sights after Gervinho clash

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has taken aim at Joey Barton for his role in the red card of Gunners forward Gervinho in the Ivorian’s debut.

The Frenchman went on the offensive after the 0-0 draw between his side and Newcastle United in the English Premier League on Saturday, claiming that midfielder Barton should also have been sent off for his role in an altercation with Gervinho in the match’s closing stages.

Wenger hit out following an incident that had parallels with the 4-4 draw between the two sides last season, in which Arsenal’s Abou Diaby was dismissed for pushing Barton to the ground.

“I think I saw more than the referee and that is two yellows or two reds but one yellow and one red,” Wenger said after Gervinho was sent off for slapping Barton.

“There is a link between the two incidents. He gets away with it. That is the link. Last year and this year he gets a yellow card.”

“I would not like to comment took much on that incident because I do think that gives any credit to the Premier League. But he has not been hit hard enough to lie down for two minutes.”

Wenger also defended Gervinho amid accusations that incurred Barton’s wrath because he had dived in the penalty box.

“Did Gervinho dive? He maintains that he was touched. He was on the pitch and I will believe him,” Wenger said.

“I don’t know if we should have had a penalty. I was not close enough to see. We have to watch it again. I would have to look at it again.”

“I think Gervinho didn’t deserve the red card personally. I don’t know why Joey Barton has grabbed him at the throat to get him up. I think that’s a yellow card. I feel the referee has not seen it and the assistant has not seen it properly.”

“Will I appeal? I will have a good look at it but I am tempted to say yes.”