And Chris Hughton agrees that the former Man City midfielder is a "quality player".
The stand-in Toon boss played down reports that Barton may be missing into the New Year after suffering a fresh foot injury setback.
Hughton appeared to suggest that the former England international won’t be missing too many games.
Hughton: “He played through two games with it. It’s a blow because Joey’s a quality player and you want all your quality players (available).
“He certainly won’t be fit for tomorrow or Saturday, but I would like to think that he is not too far away.”