Former Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton has continued his role as a pantomime villain by making an outlandish claim about Jack Ross' Sunderland.

The Fleetwood Town boss believes that if he had been in charge of the Black Cats, they'd already be promoted to the Championship.

Barton is never far from controversy and whilst his brash personality hasn't been too overstated during his time in the dugout, he's still prone to taking the limelight with his occasional comments and actions.

However, this recent outburst will surely have Sunderland fans up in arms, not least because of his Newcastle connections.

He began by refusing to concede the play-offs to his rivals, then took a swipe at the budget the Wearsiders have available to them,

Speaking to Fleetwood Weekly News, he said; "I thought we could win the league. I think I can win everything. I still think we can win the last seven games and get in the play-offs. I won’t stop believing that until it is mathematically not possible. That is my outlook to life."

His side are one of the few not embroiled in the late relegation battle, but that didn't stop him looking up and taking a swipe at those with mo means than him.

“It is two (up) automatic and one by the play-offs. Everyone judges those sides as being successful but, let’s be honest, if I had Sunderland’s budget I’d have them up by this point."

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Barton's Fleetwood are in a stronger position than last season, with 55 points and seven games remaining. Last time out they managed 57 all campaign, meaning he's on target to better their performance.

Sunderland are currently third, 21 points ahead of Fleetwood. The two sides are set to meet on April 30th.

The Verdict

Joey says what he feels, so in some respects that should be admired, but does he think how it will be taken? A former Newcastle player rubbishing the Sunderland revival from a mid table position.

It's okay thinking things are all about money, but Ross has had to reshape the squad, get rid of high earner and turn the attitude and mindset around. All the money in the world won't help him do that.