| Bth | 09/05/59 | Bishop Auckland | Co. Durham |
| P/H/W | Centre-Half | 6ft | |
| Jnd | 07/75 | Apprentice | |
| Pro | 05/77 | ||
| Deb | 02/01/78 | Leeds (A) | D1 |
| Dep. | 07/83 | Darlington | Free |
| A/G | 108 (2) | 6 |
Centre-back David Barton made just over 100 appearances for the Magpies over five seasons.
He represented Durham County at under-15 level, signed apprentice forms for Newcastle in July 1975 and became a full time professional in May 1977. David made his debut in the 1977/78 relegation season in the surprise 2-0 victory at Leeds in January.
Tall, strong and lanky, Barton possessed ideal physical qualities for the pivot spot. But, although he was highly committed and positive on the ball, Bill McGarry thought he needed to toughen up and be firmer in the tackle.
He played quite regularly during the last two campaigns of the seventies, but a succession of injuries and increasing competition led to him losing his place in the side.
And, after a couple of loan spells during the 1982/83 season, Barton moved to Darlington during the summer. Unfortunately he would suffer a knee injury the following March which would end his career.
Predictably nicknamed "Dick", but also occasionally “Victor the giraffe”, because of the length of his legs.
David made his debut in the surprise 2-0 win at Elland Road in January 1978 and played in the last 13 games of the season.
lnjuries to various defenders allowed David to play in half the games. He recovered from a shaky start to put in some decent performances. David was involved in a car crash in September.
The departure of John Blackley left an opening in the side for him but in pre-season McGarry ordered him toughen up or else . When Boam was signed McGarry selected Dave as his partner, but although he improved McGarry still believed he needed to be firmer in the tackle.
David damaged ankle ligaments in only the fifth game of the season and was ruled out until March. He then played in the final 11 games forming quite a good partnership with young Bruce Halliday.
Started the season partnering Halliday, but both players were dropped and replaced by the pairing of Carney and Haddock.
The signing of Jeff Clarke pushed him further down the pecking order. He went on loan to Blackburn just before the start of the season, but returned in November after suffering a bad knee injury. Returned to fitness in January and went on loan to Darlington. In March he was told he would be freed at the end of the season. Blackburn, Carlisle and Darlington all showed interest and he eventually moved to Darlington in July.
Had a good season on Teesside, however he was forced to retire because of a knee injury, suffered during the match at Bristol City in March. Newcastle would provide the opposition for a testimonial game.
Painting by Piotr