Joey Barton launches X-rated blast at Match of the Day host Gary Lineker

01 June 2024 , 09:21

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Joey Barton has gone after Gary Lineker on social media (Image: PA)

Joey Barton has hammered Gary Lineker for being a "virtue signalling t***" after he criticised Borussia Dortmund's latest sponsorship deal.

The German club have just announced that they've signed a three-year sponsorship agreement with weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall ahead of the Champions League final at Wembley.

The logo of the arms company will be displayed on Dortmund’s licensed products ahead of the match at Wembley, where they'll take on Real Madrid, eyeing their second Champions League crown as they return to the London venue 11 years after their last final loss.

Lineker, who has long hosted Champions League coverage, said in light of Dortmund's announcement: "First time I’ll be cheering for Real Madrid in a Champions League final"

Barton though has questioned Lineker's moral compass after highlighting how he presented coverage out in Qatar and Russia - the nations to host the last two World Cups - and suggested he'd continue going to divisive countries in the future.

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He said, in response to Lineker's tweet: "Yet, you still took Qatari money for the World Cup. Did you work Russia one as well? And I bet if Saudi get the next one, your trotters will be all over that as well. You big virtue signalling t***."

Barton has become increasingly vocal on social media in recent months. The ex-Manchester City and Newcastle player has gone after the likes of Gary Neville and a host of individuals associated with women's football.

Borussia Dortmund have landed a controversial new sponsorship deal (AFP via Getty Images)

Dortmund head to Wembley as firm underdogs having seen off the likes of Atletico Madrid and PSG en route to the final. Real, who last won the Champions League just two years ago, are aiming to land a 15th European triumph with Jude Bellingham spearheading their cause.

Carlo Ancelotti said: "A Champions League final is the most important game and the most dangerous one. You have to be a bit lucky, play well and never lower your guard but when you reach a final success is so close that you start worrying.”

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Samuel Meade