Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Appears via video link for trial preparation

Joey Barton, a former professional footballer, has refuted allegations of attacking a man at a golf club in Merseyside. The 43-year-old, based in Widnes, was remanded into custody again after a plea and trial preparation hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. His appearance was conducted remotely from Liverpool Prison, following his earlier denial of bail at a magistrates’ court session.

Barton and Gary O’Grady, 50, face charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Kevin Lynch, 51, a former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy, a special education school. The incident is alleged to have occurred at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on 8 March. Lynch reportedly sustained severe injuries to his eye during the altercation, which reportedly took place after the defendants consumed alcohol with him.

Lynch, a former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy, was said to have suffered serious injuries to his eye.

O’Grady entered the courtroom but did not yet declare a plea. Barton, who once played for clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille, also had a managerial stint with Fleetwood. His career spans both playing and coaching roles, though the current case focuses on the alleged assault incident.

The trial, which will last seven days, is scheduled to begin on 1 September. Updates on the proceedings will be closely followed by local media and fans. For more news, tune into BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds, follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer.