Barton slam former Hatters youngster over tweets

He tweeted: “When we play Barton I’m attempting to end a players career and when I do I’ll say ‘blame your groundsman.’”

His comments drew an immediate reaction as Rovers chairman Darren Whiley said: “Deeney’s comments have outraged the whole club and wider footballing community.”

The tweet looked to have been deleted later in the week with Deeney repentant.

He added: “Would like to apologise to anyone at Barton Rovers FC. Was all a load of banter and disappointed how serious some people have take. I’m not a coward and would never intentionally hurt someone on a football pitch so apologies at how over the top the situation has got.”

Rovers visit Northwood this weekend.

For the full story, see the News/Gazette on sale now.