Queens Park Rangers’ skipper Joey Barton was punched in the back of the head by two men outside a Liverpool nightclub on Monday morning.
Barton, who was with his girlfriend when he was assaulted, has revealed that he will not press charges, via his Twitter account.
“I got sucker punched in the back of the head. Not injured as reported just a small bruise on rear of head/ear. I’ve had worse. Life goes on! Thanks for the concern. Have a good day people,” Barton said via Twitter.
“Not planning on pressing charges as its not that serious. The police have also got better things to do with their time. Can I just say a public thanks to the police last night as they were and have been today brilliant.”
Once again, Barton has found his name in the headlines for non-football reasons. However, to be fair to the QPR captain, he’s not to blame for this incident.
Nonetheless, the hot-headed midfielder will not be playing football, at least professionally, in the near future.
The English Football Association found Barton guilty of two counts of violent conduct for his actions in Queens Park Rangers’ final English Premier League fixture of 2011-12 against Manchester City.
Subsequently, the native Merseysider has been handed a 12-match ban.
Balotelli leaves training
Azzurri striker Mario Balotelli was allowed to leave training after he suffered a minor muscle overload in his right knee, according to the team’s medical staff.
The Manchester City is expected to make a quick recovery, and should resume full training on Tuesday.
Balotelli bagged 19 goals and two assists in 41 appearances for club and country last season, and is expected to spearhead the Azzurri’s attack in Poland-Ukraine this summer.
Super Mario is 25/1 to be the top overall goalscorer at the 2012 European Championships.
Meanwhile, Italy’s quest for European glory took yet another hit when team doctor Enrico Castellacci revealed that defender Andrea Barzagli is doubtful for Euro 2012 due to a calf strain.
“We will try everything to help Barzagli recover, he is worth it,” said Castellacci. “And if it is not possible for him to play in the group stage, we will try to get him available for the rest of the tournament.”
Italy will kick-off their Euro 2012 campaign against Spain on 10 June.
Euro 2012 Betting Odds: Spain v Italy
Spain (8/11) v Italy (4/1); Draw (13/5)
Mario Balotelli is 9/1 to score first when Italy take on Spain in Group C.
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