Joey Barton has been slammed after branding himself the new Pope.
The former Manchester City and Newcastle United midfielder mocked himself up as the pontiff.
He has also given himself the title Pope Joseph Barton II.
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The 42-year-old made the shocking announcement after the death of Pope Francis on Monday (21 Apr).
He said: “We joyfully proclaim to the world that, by the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the sacred College of Cardinals, Joseph Barton has been elected to the See of St. Peter.
“He shall henceforth be known as Pope Joseph Barton II, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Christ, and Servant of the Servants of God.
“‘Habemus Papam!’
“Let the bells ring, and the faithful rejoice!”
Fans blasted Barton for the bizarre transformation, as reported by Need To Know.
Lisa Marie said: “Lost the plot.”
Rob Boyd added: “A pontificating Pontiff.”
Peter Linford said: “You are a Poundland Ricky Gervais, you have the wit of a fart and think that you are some kind of philosopher.
“You are a buffoon.”
Tom said: “What on earth.”
Yet Benjamin said: “Not the Pope we wanted, but the Pope we needed, hail Father Barton Borgia.”
Earlier this month he claimed he had been banned from Ladbrokes for his views on women’s football.
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