I think Kinnear is just trying to get behind his team Reg, create a bit of fight in the ranks as it were. I don't believe JK thinks Joey's an angel by any means.
I'm sure you're right, but it casts Newcastle in a very bad light, remember when Mutu got nicked for snorting charlie at Chelsea, they fired him straight out the door....now he's to pay compensation to them. That is what should have happened with Barton.