Barton is facing charges of assault, but Keegan wants him on the bench, after coming to an agreement with the courts.
The previous terms of Barton's bail stated that the 25-year-old must attend the Sporting Chance clinic in Hampshire by 7.30pm every day, but Keegan has revealed those conditions have now been changed.
Keegan: "We wrote letters explaining what we felt.
"The judge decided this was the best way to handle it.
"Everything is pretty much the same except he can play. I think the person looking after Joey thought he could play in 3pm kick-offs just at home.
"I told him we couldn't do that. It wouldn't be right for Joey, nor for the person being left out knowing full well I'd be bringing him back just because Joey can't play because of the bail conditions.
"Common sense says Joey can come back and play a sensible part."
Barton's problem are of his own making. He is employed by Newcastle United Football Club, and if he happens to get stick from away fans ... he won't be the first ... so why wrap him in cotton wool?