Joey Barton's performance on the weekend in the Old Firm derby was the subject of plenty of criticism in the wake of their 5-1 defeat, not just in the media it would seem. 

There was, as they like to say, a frank exchange of views on the training ground, and as a result the former Manchester City and QPR player won't be welcomed back to training for a few days. 

Taking to Twitter on Thursday night to respond to the news that he was not going to be involved with the team for a few days, Barton wanted to set the record straight on exactly what went on. 

In a statement, he said "the discussion we had involved some sharp disagreement about the game and some harsh words were said. There were only words involved in the disagreement, nothing else. Nevertheless, some of the worlds used did overstep the mark."

Adding that he was asked by manager Mark Warburton to "take some time out to reflect on what was said," Barton said that he wouldn't be returning to training until Monday, meaning he would miss the game against Ross County this weekend.

To respond to news reports circulating this evening... pic.twitter.com/Leh2FaTn6x

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) September 15, 2016

While he apologised "unreservedly" for anything he said that was inappropriate, he added that he cannot apologise for "caring deeply about winning and for wanting to perform better myself and for Rangers to do much better."

So, that should make the first day back at training grand...right?