Allardyce: Barton will be fav

Sam Allardyce has tipped Joey Barton to become a Newcastle fan favorite. Sam Allardyce is thrilled with the ovation that summer-signing Joey Barton received as he made his debut at St James’ Park coming on as a substitute in the 3-1 win against Tottenham on Monday night. The 25-year-old was known for being problematic during his Man City spell.

Barton had suffered a metatarsal injury following his £5.8million move to the Magpies. He however travelled with the squad to encourage the team and according to Allardyce, proved to be a popular member in and around the Toon dressing room.

And as Barton warmed up to make his much awaited debut, the St James’ Park faithful welcomed him with thunderous reception.

Allardyce, who is confident that Barton will prove a firm fans’ favourite, said: "That reception is why he came here.

"It's a tremendous lift for any player to walk out on the pitch and get a massive cheer which makes the hair stand up on the back of your neck.

"It gets your adrenaline flowing and gets you into the game.

"We were just losing our heads a little bit when he came on, and Emre was tiring a little bit. It was a good change-over tactically.

"It was good to see him back, and I hope he goes a long time before anything like that happens to him again."