Barton fight hid Iraq tragedy

SHAMED England star Joey Barton’s soldier cousin has been shot dead by a sniper in Iraq.

Alan Jones, 20, died days before the Manchester City player battered team-mate Ousmane Dabo during a training ground bust-up.

Barton, 24, has been suspended by Manchester City following his attack on Frenchman Dabo, 30, on Tuesday.

The previous Monday Alan was shot while on patrol in Basra.

Soccer hardman Barton was said to be devastated by the news.

But it is believed he has not even told Man City boss Stuart Pearce about the tragedy.

The soldier was buried in his and Barton’s hometown of Liverpool yesterday. Midfielder Barton is believed to be abroad, considering his footballing future.

A source close to the player said yesterday: “It’s not Joey’s style to make excuses. But it goes some way to explaining why he flipped. He was trying to keep it all in but it all boiled over. They were good pals, especially as kids.”

Kingsman Jones — described as “cheerful and likeable” — became the 145th British casualty in Iraq. His dad, also Alan, said: “He was vibrant and energetic. He is our hero.”

Barton has been fined in the past by City after stubbing a cigar in a youth player’s eye. His brother and cousin are serving life for the murder of a black teenager.

Dabo yesterday formally complained to cops about the incident. A Manchester Police spokesman said: “We’ve had a report from a 30-year-old man that he was assaulted. Our enquiries are ongoing.”

Manchester City have launched their own probe.