Joey Barton goes back to where his Premier League career began on Friday as his Bristol Rovers travel to the University of Bolton Stadium to face Bolton Wanderers.
Back when it was called the Reebok Stadium in April 2003, a 20-year-old Barton made his first start for Manchester City. On many levels, it was a chastening experience as a Sam Allardyce's Trotters, boasting the likes of Youri Djorkaeff, Jay-Jay Okocha and Ivan Campo in their XI, outclassed the Citizens, winning 2-0 with goals from Campo and Henrik Pederson.
Barton had no indication in the week leading into the game from manager Kevin Keegan that he would be playing, instead finding out 90 minutes before kick-off. He was gripped by nerves but he got himself under control in time for kick-off, and he says the fact he was able to overcome the apprehension cemented his confidence that he was ready to play at the elite level.
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