Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton starts a six month prison sentence this morning after being sentenced for what the judge called "a violent and cowardly act".

On 27th December last year Barton was with friends and family in Liverpool City Centre when he attacked one man punching him at least twenty times and then hit another man, aged just sixteen, breaking his teeth.

Sadly, as we all know, this was the latest in a long line of 'violent and cowardly acts' perpetrated by this young man and the prison sentence was inevitable and totally deserved.

The Court was told that Barton was remorseful about the incident and that he admitted to having a serious drink problem. One character reference for Barton was given by Peter Kay of the Sporting Chance clinic who has been supporting Barton whilst he has been on bail. He said that Barton knows he must completely refrain from drinking alcohol and that he hates the person he becomes when he is drunk.

The other character reference came from Barton's manager at Newcastle, Kevin Keegan, who said that he first knew the player when he was Manchester City manager.

He said of that period: "There were a number of issues in his life and events, some of which have been very well documented. Had I been asked to give character evidence for him then, I probably wouldn't have been able to do so."

He added that since then he had seen a "massive change" in Barton and that he was now "a far more responsible individual".

There are many things to discuss in this case. Firstly, not all of Barton's poor behaviour has occurred when he has been drunk. Secondly, Barton has said several times in the past that he was changing, but he never has done. Thirdly, it is amazing how many people show remorse and admit to problems and show some responsibility just before they are about to be sentenced for a disgusting crime. Cynical or realistic?

Everyone deserves a chance and if someone is sent to a prison for a crime then once they have served their sentence they should be allowed to get on with their lives. I truly hope that this spell in prison makes Joey Barton become one of the few leopards to change his spots. I hope he can get his life back on track and make the most of the talent that he has.

The question is, will anyone be there for him to help him resurrect his career when he comes out, or has he finally driven everyone away?