Ex-footballer Barton denies golf club attack

Ex-Professional Footballer Barton Disputes Golf Club Allegations

Joey Barton, the 43-year-old former footballer, has refuted claims of assaulting a man at a golf club in Merseyside. The case, which involves a grievous bodily harm (GBH) charge, is set for a trial starting 1 September. Barton, currently incarcerated at Liverpool prison, appeared via video link at Liverpool Crown Court during a plea and preparation hearing. He is accused of attacking Kevin Lynch, a 51-year-old former non-league football manager, at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on 8 March.

According to the earlier court session, the defendants were consuming alcohol with Lynch before the alleged incident. Lynch, who founded NexGen Academy, a special education school, was reported to have sustained severe eye injuries during the attack. Gary O’Grady, Barton’s co-defendant and a 50-year-old individual, was present in court but did not make a plea. Barton, who has previously played for clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille, also served as a manager for Fleetwood Town.

Key Details of the Case

Barton was remanded into custody following the initial hearing, where bail was denied. The trial, expected to last seven days, will determine his culpability in the GBH with intent charge. The incident at the golf club has drawn attention due to the serious nature of Lynch’s injuries, though Barton has maintained his innocence.

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