Barton sacked by Fleetwood

Fleetwood Town have sacked manager Joey Barton.

The Cod Army, who lost to Wycombe in the play-offs last season, are 10th in League One and only three points behind the top six but have parted company with the former Man City and Newcastle midfielder.

A short statement read: "Fleetwood Town can confirm manager Joey Barton has left the club with immediate effect.

"We would like to thank Joey for his work during his time at Highbury Stadium and wish him success in the future."

Barton was appointed Fleetwood manager shortly after his retirement from playing in June 2018. They finished 11th in his first season before reaching the play-offs when last term was cut short by the COVID pandemic.

Fleetwood, who were beaten 1-0 by Northampton last month, have won only one of their past five matches in all competitions.