English FA Reduces Joey Barton’s Betting Ban by Five Months

The English Football Association announced last week that Joey Barton’s ban had been reduced by almost five months, after the 34-year old former player successfully appealed the ban issued back in April.

The bad boy of English football was charged with placing 1,260 on different matches and club competitions during a whole decade, from 2006 to 2016. Since betting on games was against the rules of the Football Association (FA), Barton was initially banned for 18 months.

Betting on His Own Teams

The Football Association said back in April the player’s suspension had been the shortest one it could consider.

Detailed information also revealed Barton had made 42 bets on 20 games involving his own teams, while 15 of those games had been on his side to lose. However, Barton himself played only in two of those matches.

Following the decision of the Appeal Board, the FA issued a statement saying the sporting sanction imposed on Barton has been reduced, and instead of October 25, it will expire on June 1, 2018.

While the ban was reduced by almost a third, the fine of £30,000 wasn’t.

Career Filled With Scandals

Joey Barton started his senior career in Manchester City, where he spent five seasons, from 2002 to 2007, before moving to Newcastle United. After five years at St. James’ Park, Barton joined QPR. Four seasons and a loan to Marseille later, he spent a year at Burnley.

After a brief time with Rangers, he was released from the Scottish side in November, after an argument with team mate Andy Halliday and a subsequent three-week internal suspension. He joined Burnley, but following the April suspension, the club canceled his contract.

However, Barton is more remembered for his off-pitch behavior, problems with his teammates and coaches. He was suspended at least once in almost every team he had professionally played during his career and even managed to annoy his teammates in the English national football team.