Cole’s agent to appeal suspension

ASHLEY Cole’s agent Jonathan Barnett has been fined £100,000 (€149,000) and had his licence suspended after being declared “a prime mover” in fixing the infamous meeting between the England defender and Chelsea.

It is the first time an agent has had his licence suspended in connection with illegal approaches for players, and the FA hope the tough sentence will act as a deterrent to others.

Barnett’s suspension is for 18 months from October 16, with the second nine months suspended on condition he does not breach any other FA rules. He has already lodged an appeal.