'Great timing luv': Footballer Joey Barton plays a game while girlfriend is in labour (but makes it in time for the birth!)

By Kirsty Mccormack


Proud parents: Joey Barton and Georgia McNeil welcome their first child Cassius into the world today


He's known for his bad boy behaviour but even Joey Barton's fans were shocked when he opted to play in a game while his girlfriend went into labour.

The 29-year-old footballer chose to take part in Queens Park Rangers game against Swansea City yesterday despite Georgia McNeil checking into hospital on Boxing Day evening.

However, following QPR's 1-1 draw with the Welsh team, Barton made his way to London's Portland Hospital in time to see his son Cassius born.

Newborn: Barton tweeted a photo of his baby son just hours after he was born


In the early hours of this morning, Barton tweeted: 'He's here Cassius Joseph Barton. 7 pound 3 oz. Mother and baby are fine. Wow what a blessing that is....... #quivereringwreck'

McNeil was driven to the private hospital on Monday evening by her mother Denise after she began having contractions.

A friend close to McNeil stated that although Barton had chosen to still travel to Wales for the football game, he was kept up to date with every development.

Glowing and growing: McNeil (L) looked very glamorous at her baby shower earlier this year


The Daily Star reported that Barton was at first reluctant to attend the birth as he apparently 'hates hospitals.'

But following the match, Barton - who is well-known for his philosophical tweets - took to the social networking site to tell his 950,000 followers he was on his way.

'Game done, now to the hospital. Missus is going into labour. Great timing luv........#nosleeptonight'

This morning the messages of congratulations have been coming in thick and fast from his friends and foes in the game.

QPR owner Tony Fernandes tweeted: 'Congrats joey. Very happy to welcome the new ranger. Congrats. Great news.' Barton replied: 'Thanks mate'.


Just in time: Barton drove straight from Wales to London to join his girlfriend for the birth of his son this morning


Rangers team-mate Clinton Hill posted 'Congratulations pal', while Everton midfielder Phil Neville said 'congratulations!!!'.

It is not yet known why the name Cassius has been chose, although Barton is a boxing fan so it could be in reference to former heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, who was born Cassius Clay.

The name has Latin origins and the meaning is often described as 'empty, vain, hollow, poor, or robbed'.

Barton is expected to be back in QPR's line-up for their London derby against Arsenal on Saturday.



source:dailymail