PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor claims because Marlon King did not seek prior support for his violent behaviour the PFA were under no obligation to assist with his court appearance. Taylor's assistant, Bobby Barnes, admitted on Thursday that King had brought the situation on himself after the striker was sentenced to 18 months in jail for sexual assault and actual bodily harm.

That led King's agent, Tony Finnigan, to hit out at the union for refusing to back his client.

In a statement on the PFA's official website Taylor said: "The PFA does not represent players when they have broken the law and been convicted on non-footballing matters.

"Nevertheless, should any member with anger management or other issues approach us for assistance we are always happy to provide that assistance through the Sporting Chance Clinic as has been the case with other such high profile cases.

"We have never been approached by Marlon King or his representatives for such assistance and are therefore unable to rely on any information other than the conviction and sentencing yesterday."

After the sentencing, Wigan chairman Dave Whelan announced his intention to sack the player, who according to Finnigan, intends to appeal against the length of his jail sentence as well as his dismissal.

Taylor added: "The player's representatives have been informed of the appropriate channels for appeal should they decide to challenge his dismissal by Wigan Athletic Football Club."