Joey Barton makes vile serial killer comparison as ex-Man City & Newcastle midfielder hits new low with latest rant about Eni Aluko & Lucy Ward commentary skills during FA Cup tie

The former England international, who was sacked from his role as Bristol Rovers manager in October 2023, has been vocal on social media when it comes to his opinion of female pundits working in coverage of the men’s game.

Barton has attracted widespread criticism for claiming that women “aren’t qualified” to discuss men’s football. He is showing no sign of biting his tongue, with another tirade launched into following Everton’s FA Cup third round clash with Crystal Palace.

Lucy Ward was on commentary duty for that contest, while ex-Lionesses star Eni Aluko was in the ITV studio as a pundit. Barton posted on X when offering a scathing assessment of their efforts – with the names of infamous serial killers dragged into the conversation: “How is she even talking about Men’s football. She can’t even kick a ball properly. Your coverage of the game EFC last night, took it to a new low. Eni Aluko and Lucy Ward, the Fred and Rose West of football commentary.”

Barton went on to say when presented with a video of Aluko – who represented Chelsea and Juventus in her playing days, while earning 102 caps for England – taking shots at a goalkeeper in a training exercise: “Technically, that’s awful. She can’t move without her legs rubbing together. You have to laugh. She’s 18 yds out and can’t reach the goal without a bounce! F***ing pathetic. Get them off the Men’s Football. Off the tele. Only there to tick boxes. DEI is a load of shit. Affirmative action. All off the back of the BLM/George Floyd nonsense. Cancel me, I’d don’t care anymore.”

Barton has previously criticised female pundits such as Alex Scott and Bianca Westwood, with the 41-year-old turning a deaf ear to those that have suggested he should keep his views to himself.