Joey Barton (talking to The Daily Star): “We met up at Redcar races because we had horses running in the same race. It was Alan who approached me and we shook hands and talked.
“I’ve seen him numerous times since and there’s not been a problem. We’d actually played golf on several occasions before he came in as manager at the end of last season and we’d always got on well.
“He was disappointed with that stupid tackle because he had placed so much faith in me. Did I think I’d played my last game for the club? I don’t know, but I do seem to be the great survivor.
“Twelve months ago, we were relegated and I didn’t know what the future held for me, and two years ago I knew I was facing prison.
“That was scary and even now I wonder how I got through it. The flip side is that it was my own fault and I got what I deserved.
“I took the punishment on the chin and have tried to become a better man since. For some people that will never be enough, but today I am satisfied with who I am and the journey I’ve had to take.
"My reward was last Monday night when we clinched the title at Plymouth. And when we were presented with the Championship trophy after the Ipswich game, it was a very special moment for all of us, though most of the lads deserved their medals a lot more than me because they’ve had so much more to do with our success.
“There’s a family feel about the place now and most of us will be mates for life.
“I can honestly say I have never been in a better dressing room, even in my schooldays.”