The reference to the Polish is racist and uncalled for. If Barney commited a crime he should accept the punishment meted out, it's as simple as that. The fact that he is a footballer has little bearing on the matter, except possibly his ability to pay any fines and costs, should he be found guilty.
I agree wholeheartedly with this. My question though is what should the club do if he is found guilty and sent down? This is a bit prickly and difficult, but no matter how much I love his 100% attitude on the pitch and that this may not happen to a "normal" job, part of me thinks we should rip up his contract if he is found guilty. IF he did it, then in his position as a professional footballer, he should be aware of his social responsibilities and I don't think NC or the club should tolerate that behaviour from anyone.
On a moral level I agree with you to set an example to others. However, on a pragmatic level, I think we'll keep him if the club feel we need him. Also depends on length of prison sentence (if any).
Have none of you actually reacted to a situation and then immediately regretted it? I think the short answer would be yes.....although granted it might of had such serious consequences as this. I am in no way agreeing with what he has done nor am I suggesting that there should not be punishment for his crime if found guilty. Once he has done his time as far as I'm concerned it is over in the sense that he will have served his punishment. As for should he play for Saints again, that should be on ability and not on what he has done. I believe that everyone deserves at least one chance, although it would depend on the crime of course. Incidentally things do depend on his contract at Saints........if he is unable to complete his contract my understanding is that the contract is suspended with out pay until it can be resumed, which I believe to be the norm. Although that is at the clubs discretion!
