I think it's a bit extreme, considering Barton put in world class performances against 5under1and and Arsenal, but the gent obviously wanted to put across his point.
Joey Barton has accepted a Football Association charge of violent conduct and issued an apology for throwing a punch at Morten Gamst Pedersen during his side's 2-1 defeat at home to Rovers on Wednesday night.
It wasn't what we wanted to see, particularly as the Rovers player didn't seem to do anything wrong, and we cannot defend that sort of action.
Barton escaped any punishment at the time as the incident occurred behind the back of referee Mike Jones, but the Football Association were quick to act.
The 28-year-old was given more than 24 hours to respond but has come forward quickly to confirm that he will not be lodging an appeal.
Barton must therefore serve a three-match suspension, ruling him out of Newcastle's Premier League games against Fulham, Bolton and Chelsea.
Barton: "I fully accept that I was in the wrong on this occasion and accept the charge that the FA have brought against me.
"I would like to apologise to Chris Hughton, my team-mates, our supporters and of course to Morten Gamst Pedersen and Blackburn Rovers.
"This season, I have really been enjoying my football and although I have been on the receiving end of a few robust challenges, I have, up until now, remained calm in the face of provocation and just carried on with the game.
"But I hold my hands up, I reacted badly to the situation on Wednesday night and I deeply regret it.
"I have been working very hard to keep that side of my game under control and I think it has showed in the way I have been able to get on and enjoy my football this season.
"I look forward to trying to get back into the team once my suspension is over and helping the club maintain its good start to the season."