Joey Barton: Fleetwood boss given £2,000 fine for criticising referee

Fleetwood boss Joey Barton (right) was sent off late on in their defeat by Bristol Rovers

Fleetwood boss Joey Barton has been fined £2,000 after accepting a Football Association charge for criticising the referee following their defeat by Bristol Rovers.

Barton, 36, said Brett Huxtable's performance was "as bad as I have seen in my life" and hoped he "never sees him refereeing" again in League One.

Six Fleetwood players were booked while Ched Evans and Barton were sent off.

Meanwhile, forward Harvey Saunders has joined from non-league side Darlington.

The 21-year-old joins for an undisclosed fee and will return to Darlington for the rest of the season, after signing a two-and-a-half-year deal.

Cod Army boss Barton was also given a two-match touchline ban and a separate £2,000 fine after previously being found guilty of misconduct during the same match, which took place on 22 December.

The former Manchester City, Newcastle and Burnley midfielder previously admitted using 'abusive and/or insulting' language as well as questioning an official's integrity.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.