Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey Barton has apologised for his part in a Twitter row with former Manchester City teammate Dietmar Hamann.

The spat erupted last night after ex-Liverpool midfielder Hamann told Barton to avoid getting involved in "club politics" after the ex-Newcastle United player criticised the hierarchy at St James' Park.

The argument between the pair rumbled into over 50 messages on the social network site and Barton accused Hamann of having a gambling problem and referred to his family life.

Barton tweeted today: "I've slept on it. I have no right to question a man I hardly know. I must, therefore apologise for my part in last nights heated exchange. I should be wise enough to rise above such trivial things."

Barton is currently on loan at Ligue 1 outfit Marseille.