Coventry City boss Mark Robins has a Newcastle United theory - after Joey Barton's bizarre Sunderland comments

Barton, a former Newcastle United midfielder, hit out at Sunderland’s style of play in a bizarre interview – but the Coventry City disagrees with his views, and has his own theory on why the comments were made.

“I think that maybe had something to do with his Newcastle past, but I don’t know,” said Robins, speaking to the Coventry Telegraph.

“Managers say things at times and we’re all competitive and it does certain things to you at times and you look back and think, ‘dear me.’

“But I don’t think they are necessarily that. They have got some good and talented players and I am looking forward to the game which should be a really good spectacle.”

Indeed, Robins is relishing the chance to face a Sunderland side who he feels will have hefty expectations on their shoulders.

“It’s a good opportunity to play against another good team that has changed and evolved over the last few months,” added the Sky Blues’ chief.

“It’s a big club who are under pressure to get back to the Championship.

“It’s a club with great expectations on their shoulders.

“They will see themselves as a Premier League club, well supported and they’ll have a really good following on Sunday, and they’re a decent team as well, so it’s an interesting game and one to look forward to.”