Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Ex-footballer Barton Denies Golf Club Attack

Joey Barton, a former professional footballer, has rejected claims of assaulting a man at a Merseyside golf club. The 43-year-old, currently in custody, is set to stand trial starting September 1st. He appeared via video link from Liverpool Prison at Liverpool Crown Court during a plea and trial preparation session, following his bail denial in a prior magistrates’ court hearing.

Barton faces charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Kevin Lynch, 51, a former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy. The incident occurred at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on March 8th, and Lynch reportedly suffered serious injuries to his eye. His co-defendant, Gary O’Grady, 50, was also in court but did not yet enter a plea.

The court heard that Barton and O’Grady had been drinking with Lynch before the alleged attack. Lynch, who previously managed non-league teams, is now part of the case against the two defendants. Barton’s career includes spells with Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille, along with a single appearance for England.

For updates, follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and listen to BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds. The trial, which will last seven days, is expected to reveal further details about the incident.