Barton: I'll take lie detector test

Joey Barton last night challenged Newcastle United managing director Derek Llambias to "take a polygraph test live on TV" after Llambias refuted claims by the former Magpies midfielder in a podcast on Tuesday that former manager Chris Hughton and and other players were forced out of Tyneside after a dispute over bonuses.

Llambias said in a statement: "In a week when one of Newcastle United's most beloved footballers [Gary Speed] passed away, it is disappointing that once again Joey Barton makes the headlines. Our legal advisers are dealing with the matter now and we would encourage Joey to concentrate on his football at Queen's Park Rangers."

However, Barton countered on Twitter in an attack on Llambias and owner Mike Ashley: "Seen Llambias comments, he is crass and has no class. I'll leave it for another day but if he wants to take a polygraph live on tv, let's do it.

"Not only do I have insurmountable amounts of proof (texts etc et) but also about 6 others players who will concur. Am ready when u r Derek... If he's worried now, him and his fat mate should be shitting it, if I decide to write a book. There'll be no holding back on those 2 muppets."