Barton out for eight weeks with knee injury

The finger has been pointed at Joey Barton often enough in his career but he yesterday refused to blame Wigan Athletic's Lee Cattermole for causing the injury that will rule the Newcastle United midfielder out of action for two months.

The 26-year-old was replaced in the 16th minute of Saturday's 2-2 draw with Wigan Athletic after a collision with Cattermole. He left St James' Park on crutches and scans later showed that he has a slight tear to his right medial ligament. "I am not blaming Lee Cattermole in any way for this injury," Barton said. "It was a 50-50 ball and we both went for it, and these things happen. Obviously, it's disappointing and frustrating, and my sole intention is to knuckle down and bounce back and get fit again to help the Newcastle United cause."

Barton only returned to action last month after a six-match ban imposed after a training ground assault on his former Manchester City team-mate Ousmane Dabo.

Didier Drogba is also probably heading for a spell on the sidelines after he yesterday admitted a Football Association charge of violent conduct following last week's Carling Cup defeat by Burnley, when he was pictured throwing an object at away fans. The 30-year-old scored the opener at Stamford Bridge but faces a three-match ban for hurling the missile, thought to be a coin, towards the stands during his celebrations.

An FA regulatory commission will hear the case today and make their final decision based on video evidence and written submissions.