QPR's Barton punched in face outside nightclub

LIVERPOOL, England (AP) Queens Park Rangers captain Joey Barton has been punched in the head outside a nightclub in his hometown in northern England.

QPR spokesman Ian Taylor says the 29-year-old Barton was attacked while in Liverpool with his girlfriend by two men who had been singing offensive chants at him early Monday morning.

Merseyside Police say two 21-year-old men were arrested for a public order offense. Barton isn't pursuing a case.

The midfielder wrote on Twitter: ''I got sucker punched in the back of the head. Not injured as reported just a small bruise on rear of head/ear. I've had worse. Life goes on! Thanks for the concern. Have a good day people.''

Barton served 77 days in jail in 2008 after a street fight in Liverpool.

The midfielder was suspended for 12 matches for violent conduct during the club's last Premier League match of the season at Manchester City last month.