Former Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton believes that Derek Llambias's decision to step down as managing director was the wrong choice.

Llambias announced this morning that it is the right time for him to leave the club, who appointed Joe Kinnear as their new director of football this week.

Barton wrote on Twitter: "As much as I personally didn't warm to Llambias, I don't think it's the smartest move to see him resign at a key time for the club."

Meanwhile, the Magpies face a tough start to the Premier League 2013-14 campaign with a clash against Manchester City.