Blackburn Rovers' official X account has received criticism from supporters after they called out Joey Barton.
The former footballer gave a strong response after the Championship club accused him of having a 'public meltdown'.
Barton has grabbed headlines in recent weeks for his controversial views on women pundits in men's football.
He compared Eni Aluko and Lucy Ward to serial killers Fred and Rose West, an opinion which was condemned by ITV.
Blackburn Rovers' X account has received criticism for its reply to Joey Barton
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Former England forward Aluko has been targeted by Barton in particular.
But that is not the only topic he has been giving his opinion on.
Barton reacted to a video on Monday afternoon where he addressed diversity and equality in the UK.
The video in question was a clip from 1905 showing hundreds of school children in Blackburn.
Barton wrote: "120 years ago in Blackburn, England.
"We talk about Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.
"We never talk about Equity.
"Who has done the work.
"Who has built the places.
"Who fought in the wars.
"Who paid the taxes.
"Who built and maintained these communities.
"We shouldn’t forgot our past.
"As we look to improve our future."
The official Blackburn Rovers X account was not happy to see Barton mention the Lancashire-based town.
The account replied: "Hi Joey, if you could have your public meltdown without bringing our town into it, that'd be great. Thanks."
Barton was quick to respond and point out Blackburn's poor recent form on the pitch.
He wrote: "1 win in 10 in the Championship.
"17th position. @Rovers "I’d keep your nut down if I was you pal.
"Do your bosses know you’ve tweeted.
"You’ll be plucking chickens next week."
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Hi Joey, if you could have your public meltdown without bringing our town into it, that'd be great. Thanks.
— Blackburn Rovers (@Rovers) January 22, 2024
Barton had a spell at Blackburn's rivals Burnley in his playing career.
He also posted a picture of himself in a Burnley kit in response, writing: "Can't help but smile when I think of you all... #undefeated."
Many fans were not happy with Blackburn's post to Barton.
One wrote: "I think it would be wise to try and read the room with Rovers fans before commenting on such a post @Rovers.
"Further division between club and fans, although seemingly impossible is ill-advised."
While another put: "But you don't speak for the town.
"Whether people agree with him or not, you're in no position to speak 'on behalf of Blackburn'.
"Admins for football clubs online shouldn't say things like this."
Some supporters were not happy with Blackburn's post
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Another said: "Someone’s gonna get sacked for this tweet."
While one more user put: "Your town? YOUR town? Really? This is a social media platform.
"If you get upset at this, why don’t you rant about your below average football teams form?"
Some users were in support of Blackburn's post, including a Burnley fan.
The supporter wrote: "Now I'm not usually up for backing you lot Rovers but good on you for tweeting this.
"You're a community club supporting your community and that should be commended. Fair play, from a Claret."
While another user put: "Massive win for this admin."
