Arsenal's Gervinho is a cheat: Barton

Outspoken Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton labelled Arsenal forward Gervinho a "cheat" after a heated 0-0 draw at St James' Park.

The Ivorian was shown a red card on his Gunners debut after landing a slap on Barton after the Magpies man grappled with the new Arsenal forward.

Gervinho had gone down under a challenge from Cheick Tiote that incensed Barton, who grabbed the Ivorian and a mele insued. During that Gervinho slapped Barton, who went to ground.

"Merely called out a fellow professional for blatantly cheating. Everyone hates cheats," Barton tweeted. "If u raise ur hands to players faces, u should be off. Ref got it right..."