Steve Bruce critical of Joey Barton for "ridiculous" sending off

Steve Bruce has claimed that Joey Barton's actions which led to his dismissal were "ridiculous" following Hull City's 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers at the KC Stadium.

Barton was sent off for hitting out at Tom Huddlestone after QPR debutant Darnell Furlong's challenge on David Meyler sparked an angry reaction from players on both sides, and Bruce admits that he was surprised by the events which followed the tackle.

"I can honestly say that I didn't see the actual incident. I was applauding the initial tackle from both players," the Hull boss told reporters. "In my day both players would have picked each other up and said 'what a fantastic challenge that was'.

"I don't think it was a red card. If anything I think it was one of those fair challenges where both players were committed.

"So, I didn't see the incident but everyone has told me what [Barton] did and it's just ridiculous and one of those silly little moments."

Barton used to Twitter to apologise to QPR supporters after the game.