Former Manchester City player Joey Barton has lashed out at Gary Lineker, labelling him a "virtue signalling t***" following his criticism of Borussia Dortmund's latest sponsorship deal.
The German club recently announced a three-year sponsorship agreement with weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall, ahead of the Champions League final at Wembley. Rheinmetall's logo will be featured on Dortmund's licensed products in the lead up to their match against Real Madrid.
Dortmund are hoping to secure their second Champions League title as they return to the London venue 11 years after their last final defeat. Lineker, who has long Champions League coverage, reacted to Dortmund's announcement by saying: "First time I'll be cheering for Real Madrid in a Champions League final."
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Barton, though, questioned Lineker's moral stance after highlighting how he presented coverage in Qatar and Russia - the nations to host the last two World Cups - and suggested he'd continue going to divisive countries in the future.
In response to Lineker's tweet, Barton said: "Yet, you still took Qatari money for the World Cup. Did you work Russia one as well? And I bet if Saudi get the next one, your trotters will be all over that as well. You big virtue signalling t***."
The former Manchester City and Newcastle player, Barton, has become increasingly outspoken on social media and has gone after the likes of Gary Neville and a host of individuals associated with women's football.
Dortmund will arrive at Wembley as the clear underdogs, despite impressive victories over Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain on their journey to the final. Real Madrid, who clinched the Champions League title just two years ago, are looking to secure their 15th European victory.
Jude Bellingham will be leading the charge for Real Madrid while Manchester United loanee Jadon Sancho is likely to get the nod after an impressive stint on loan at Dortmund.
Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti remarked: "A Champions League final is the most important game and the most dangerous one.
"You have to be a bit lucky, play well and never lower your guard but when you reach a final success is so close that you start worrying."
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