‘Classic’ - Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton amuses fans with response to Man Utd star’s emotional plea

Football fans couldn't help but find the humour in Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton's plea that football authorities make a move towards greater leniency on player bookings.

The Gas manager was back on Twitter on Monday to share his thoughts on an emotional message shared by Manchester United defender Raphael Varane.

The veteran France international took to the social media platform to share details on a meeting between Premier League stars and the FA ahead of the upcoming top flight season. The Red Devil star said that players had shared concerns over a congested fixture schedule and the elongation of fixtures - this season will see matches in the Premier League adopt an added time ruling similar to that seen in last year's World Cup with games reaching 100 minutes long.

Varane wrote: "From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for players' physical and mental well-being.

"Despite our previous feedbacks, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100% to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard?

"As a player I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week.

"I believe it is important that we, players and managers, highlight these important issues as we want to protect the game we love and give the fans our best."

The message sparked discussion online and, never one to shy away from controversy, Barton shared his opinion on the emotion of the sport that Varane alluded to. For the Bristol Rovers boss, it's the ease with which yellow and red cards are given by referees that cause him 'the most problems'.

Barton wrote: "It’s the stupid yellow cards that cause me the most problems. We want our best players available all the time. Not suspended or running the risk of a red card for showing emotion. It’s the most emotive game, that’s why it’s loved across the globe."

Given that the former Newcastle United and Manchester City midfielder picked up 117 yellow cards and nine red cards over his playing career, fans online took the latest Barton brainwave with some humour.

One user replied: "Joey Barton never had a problem with receiving stupid cards in his playing career, did he?"

Another added: "Who would’ve thought Joey Barton would complain about the volume of cards being given out?"

Meanwhile, others did agree with the manager, saying he was 'spot on' with the analysis. One fan wrote: "100% agree! Cannot say anything or show any emotion these days!"