Dabo: "I almost lost an eye. It was a terrible day and although I was not traumatised, I wanted the trial to come round.

"There was no confrontation, as Barton pleaded guilty straight away, and I did not need to give evidence. That says a lot about me - it shows that my version of the truth is the truth. I am happy with the outcome.

"He admits he behaved in a cowardly way, and he is a coward. We met one another on Monday. He was in one corner and me in another. He did not talk to me or apologise, but it did not trouble me to see him again.

"English clubs teach you lots of lessons, but in this case they truly lack ethics and morals.

"Newcastle have invested a lot in this guy and they do not want to lose a lot of money. The club does not care a damn about the law and it shocks me."

NEWCASTLE UTD MAD VIEW:

Personally I want to see Barton on the first train out of Central station, but I don't think he was a "coward" for knocking seven-bells out of the Frenchman.

A coward, in my book, is someone who is hit but doesn't fight back! So perhaps the Lazio player should re-word his speech.

As for Newcastle United ... they can only act when Barton gets out of nick!