Joey Barton criticized as fans call for apology over deleted comment about Liverpool parade incident
Joey Barton has come under fire for a social media post he made following a disturbing incident during Liverpool’s title parade, where several fans were injured after being hit by a car.
Massive crowds filled the streets of Liverpool to celebrate the club’s 20th league title, eager to catch a glimpse of Arne Slot and his squad during the parade. However, the joyful event was overshadowed by chaos when a car plowed into a group of supporters on Water Street.
Shocking footage and images of the incident quickly spread online. Merseyside Police released a statement confirming the crash and that the suspect had been detained. Witnesses described how angry fans smashed the car in retaliation. Police later confirmed the arrest of a 53-year-old white British man and urged the public not to jump to conclusions.
Despite that warning, former footballer Joey Barton appeared to imply otherwise in a post on X. In his original message, which he later edited, Barton wrote: “Thoughts are with all the football fans celebrating their team’s title victory. This is horrendous. Everyone knows what’s gone on. When will it stop [prayer emoji].”
After facing criticism, Barton edited the post, removing the more suggestive lines, but not before fans noticed. Many users called him out for what they saw as an attempt to stir speculation.
Comments included: “Changed your tune didn’t you,” and “Backtracking quicker than you did on the pitch.” Others asked for clarification or an apology, with one saying: “You’ve had a shocker, Joey. At least stand by what you say.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been kept informed and condemned the incident as “appalling.”
Liverpool FC also released a statement confirming they are cooperating with police: “We are in direct contact with Merseyside Police regarding the incident on Water Street which happened towards the end of the trophy parade. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected. We will continue to fully support emergency services and local authorities.”
