Former Burnley midfielder Joey Barton has had his 18-month suspension reduced 13 months and 1 week on appeal.

The 34-year old was handed the sanction after being found guilty of placing over 1200 bets over a ten-year period, which broke a number of FA rules. The former Rangers man was also fined £30,000 for his troubles.

The appeal took into account the testimony of consultant psychiatrist Dr. Hopley, who told of Barton's addiction to gambling, and the fact that Barton's bets did not effect any matches.

"It was clear that Mr Barton was not involved in any cheating, he did not influence any games and there was nothing suspicious about his bets," said the appeal board.

"(The reduction) reflects the overall seriousness of the breaches and also the mitigation of Mr Barton's addiction."