League One side Fleetwood Town have confirmed the departure of manager Joey Barton with immediate effect. Barton leaves the Trawlermen tenth in the division with eight wins and five draws from their 20 matches this season.
Joey Barton Leaves Fleetwood Town
First Managerial Job
Barton was a surprise appointment by Fleetwood when he joined the club back in 2018. His first managerial role, though, surprised many of the doubters, particularly in the second season where he led Fleetwood to the play-offs.
Ultimately, the side crumbled and were eliminated in the semi-finals by eventual play-off winners Wycombe Wanderers. However, it was marked as an achievement that Fleetwood, and Barton, had managed to reach that stage.
Barton’s tenure, though, was not without its controversy. South Yorkshire Police launched an investigation after Barton allegedly assaulted Barnsley managed Daniel Stendel in the tunnel after the Tykes’ 4-2 win.
He was later charged with actual bodily harm and pleaded not guilty on two separate occasions.
Departure
The reasoning behind Barton’s departure from Fleetwood is currently unclear. The club offered no explanation in their statement, simply saying: “Fleetwood Town can confirm manager Joey Barton has left the club with immediate effect.
“We would like to thank Joey for his work during his time at Highbury Stadium and wish him success in the future.”
Fleetwood striker Ched Evans was recently let go by the club, with Barton citing “disciplinary and behaviour” issues, which could have affected his position as manager.
As well, it could simply be down to Fleetwood’s position in the league. Having reached the play-offs last season, they will have wanted to at least achieve that again, but sitting in tenth with one win from five games does not exactly spell play-off form.
It remains to be seen who Fleetwood will appoint as his successor.
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