Football thuggery

I see that Ousmane Dabo is considering suing Joey Barton for punching him unconcious and 'disfiguring' him.

For the love of God, why not call the police? And why haven't they arrested Barton in any case? Are footballers exempt from prosecution?

Some friends I spoke with say that the police can't arrest Barton unless Dabo wishes to press charges, but surely his intention to sue could be construed as such?

Makes me as sick as a parrot.