Joey Barton responds to Alex Scott’s defence of female pundits in the men’s game by claiming she doesn’t ‘have a clue’ and slamming her as a ‘really bad player’… before messaging her to insist he wants to avoid a ‘row’

Joey Barton has responded to Alex Scott's defense of female pundits in the men's game by insisting she 'has no idea' and focusing on her playing career.

During the BBC's coverage of the Women's Super League match between Arsenal and Chelsea on Sunday, Scott told women that 'football is a better place when we're all in it', seemingly calling back on numerous sexist comments from Barton.

Barton, formerly of Newcastle and QPR, claimed women should not comment on men's football because they have not played it.

The comments, which caused a stir on social media, were followed by individual criticism of both Scott and TNT Sports host Laura Woods.

However, England and Arsenal Women's legend Scott took the opportunity to deliver a moving final speech and urged women to continue to act as role models.

Scott responded indirectly to Barton's sexist comments by defending female experts

“Just before we say goodbye, to all the women in football, in front of the camera, behind it, the players on the field, to everyone who attends matches, keep being the role model that you continue to be,” she said.

“To all those young girls who are told that's not possible, football is a better place when we're all in it.”

Barton responded to X, formerly Twitter, by making a personal joke about Scott's abilities with a comparison to Sunday League. He further offered to debate the host.

He tweeted: 'connntinnuuuuuuuuhhhhtuuuu (sic) what, sorry @AlexScott. I can't say you don't understand men's football? You do not do that. Sorry. You have no idea. And you were a very poor player compared to even a Sunday League player.

'In my opinion, the winner of this year's FA National Sunday Cup could easily beat the winner of this season's @BarclaysWSL @SkySportsWSL in a cup final, at Wembley for charity. Or English women @Lionesses.

'I like having Alex on my podcast. I think I know more about football than she does. I think I was a better player, but I would like to see (or hear) her perspective.”

Barton made a personal comment about Scott's playing ability and offered to debate her on a podcast

Barton, 41, then appeared to backtrack on his scathing comments by sharing a screenshot of a direct message he personally sent to Scott.

'Come on! I don't want a fight,” the message read.

The tweet was accompanied by the caption: “If the offer holds. I hate to tell you the whole truth. Am I wrong? Let's debate it. No changes allowed. As long as you want.

“She followed me first. I just followed back. I like Alex. I think she's a great role model. A brilliant player in the women's game.

'The men's game is different. Debate with me. Let's discuss. I'm a bad guy. I understand. But I want to do it right. Merry Christmas.'

Barton was sacked as manager of Bristol Rovers in October.