Flashback

What an interesting world we live in. At the end of the game at Goodison Park, Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton trots over to the crowd, takes off his shirt and gives it to a young disabled fan, who is clearly thrilled. The price of that very kind gesture is that Barton is naked to the waist, which appears to offend no-one.

Then, in good humoured recognition of the Everton fans who have hurled abuse at him, Barton smiles and gently lowers his shorts. Result? Evidently, the delicate sensibilities of many of the Everton faithful are outraged. Shock. Horror. The incident goes into referee Andre Marriner’s report. The F.A. and the Merseyside police become involved. There are dark hints of disciplinary action against the player.

But apparently, there is no-one to congratulate Joey Barton – on his kindness, his good humour and, yes, his self-control.

Why not?