Blackburn striker Jason Roberts has blasted Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton for lashing out at Morten Gamst Pedersen during Rovers' 2-1 win at St James' Park.

Barton seems certain to face action from the FA after punching Pedersen in the stomach during the game, with Roberts defending his team-mate to the hilt.

He said:"Morten's turned round to apologise if you watch the footage to say sorry about that foul.

"We've all seen the footage, we all saw what happened, so it will be interesting to see what happens from now going on.

"Morten is a lovely lad and he's never going to say anything to be controversial or make any wild statements, but you could see he was disappointed by what happened.

"From his point of view what he was saying was anyone who was watching the video will see what happens.

"He didn't want to comment too much because he wouldn't say boo to a goose and that's what makes it even more disappointing.

"It's all right doing it to people who are not that way inclined."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email