Kiernan Hughes-Mason, a former Championship footballer, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for violently assaulting his ex-partner's two-year-old daughter, leaving her with severe and life-changing injuries. Over a three-month period, he inflicted 17 different injuries, which doctors likened to those from a high-speed accident, resulting in the child being placed in a coma for 14 days. Hughes-Mason initially claimed the injuries were accidental, but evidence revealed a pattern of abuse, including belittling messages he sent regarding the child. The toddler now requires round-the-clock care, cannot walk or speak independently, and suffers from epilepsy and constant pain. Hughes-Mason's previous football affiliations include youth teams for Arsenal and Tottenham, and he had been managing Enfield Borough until his conviction. The club and others have expressed shock at the revelations, stating they were unaware of his actions prior to the trial.