Newcastle United striker Joelinton had been branded "an idiot" for posting pictures of him getting a haircut on to social media - by the man who styled his hair!
Stylist Tom Baxter admitted he should not have cut Joelinton's hair at his Newcastle salon but Steve Bruce has indicated his player's mistake was "genuine".
However, Joelinton is now facing a hefty club fine for his actions as Newcastle try to set an example to younger supporters.
After Joelinton was left out of the 2-0 win at Everton, Bruce said: "He's made a mistake.
"And he regrets it of course, he hasn't thought well enough - but the mistake was genuine.
"We will deal with it and punish him in house. That is the right course of action."
Mr Baxter told the BBC: "Yes it was lockdown and we should not have done it, I should not have done it," he said.
"But I'm not a bad lad and he's not a bad lad.
"Everyone has probably broken the rules at some point.
"During the first lockdown everyone took it seriously but now I think people are fed up with it."
Mr Baxter is also braced for a visit from police and said he would "accept what's handed down to me" if that situation arises.
Quotes attributed to Mr Baxter, which were broadcasted on national BBC bulletins all day, stated that Joelinton was an "idiot" in the words of the hair stylist.
Mr Baxter continued: "I'm not being arrogant or cocky. I know people who have had symptoms and I know people have died.
"I do regret it if I was putting somebody else at risk. I shall take the heat, whatever is thrown at me."
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