Football News : Barton punched during night out in Liverpool

By ESPN staff

Police have confirmed that QPR midfielder Joey Barton was attacked outside a nightclub in Liverpool during the early hours of Monday.

GettyImagesJoey Barton is restrained by QPR after a bust up on the pitch

Barton, sent off in the final game of last season against Manchester City, was reportedly punched in the face during the incident - which happened outside Garlands nightclub in Liverpool City centre.

Merseyside Police confirmed the incident is being investigated, and two 21-year-olds have been arrested on related matters.

"Merseyside Police were called to Eberle Street in Liverpool city centre at 5.30am this morning following reports of an altercatio n," said a spokeswoman for Merseyside Police. "On arrival officers found a 29-year-old man who had sustained injuries to his face. The man left the scene voluntarily.

"Two 21-year-old men from the L13 area were arrested at the scene for a public order offence. They are currently in police custody."

Barton - who has long been a polarising figure - was recently banned for 12 matches for his conduct before and after his dismissal against Manchester City, amid reports that QPR will now look to offload him during the summer.