Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Ex-footballer Barton refutes assault claims at golf club

Joey Barton, a former professional footballer, has rejected allegations of attacking a man during an incident at a golf club in Merseyside. The 43-year-old, based in Widnes, is set to stand trial for grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, following a hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. He appeared via video link from Liverpool Prison, where he was remanded into custody for a seven-day trial beginning 1 September.

Accusations and court proceedings

Barton and Gary O’Grady, 50, are charged with causing serious injury to Kevin Lynch, 51, at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on 8 March. According to court reports, the defendants were consuming alcohol with Lynch before the alleged altercation. Lynch, a former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy, a special education school, is reported to have sustained severe eye damage during the incident.

Lynch was said to have suffered serious injuries to his eye during the attack.

O’Grady, who also appeared in court, has yet to enter a plea. Barton, who played for clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Marseille, previously made one appearance for England. He also had a managerial stint with Fleetwood Town. The trial will determine whether the accusations against him hold true.

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