During the trial, the judge expressed disappointment and concern about Emmanuel-Thomas's actions, stating that they would have a significant impact on his reputation as a professional footballer.

The court heard a letter written by Emmanuel-Thomas, in which he reflected on the difficulties he had faced in the past year.

In the letter, he described the experience as "harmful and eye-opening" and mentioned that it had been "unbearable" at times.

Emmanuel-Thomas also expressed his concerns about how his daughter would perceive him after visiting him in prison, saying that it broke his heart to think of her seeing him in a negative light.