Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Joey Barton, a retired footballer, has refuted allegations of attacking a man at a golf club in Merseyside. The 43-year-old, based in Widnes, appeared via video link from Liverpool Prison at Liverpool Crown Court during a hearing focused on plea preparation and trial readiness. He remains in custody as the case progresses.

Alongside Gary O’Grady, a 50-year-old co-defendant, Barton is accused of causing serious harm to Kevin Lynch, a 51-year-old former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy, a special education institution. The incident allegedly took place on 8 March at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club. Lynch reportedly sustained severe eye injuries during the altercation.

According to earlier court details, the defendants were consuming alcohol with Lynch at the golf club prior to the incident. O’Grady did not respond to the charges during the hearing, while Barton’s legal team continues to prepare his defense. The trial, set for September 1, will span seven days.

Barton’s professional career included stints with Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille. He also served as a manager for Fleetwood Town. The case marks another chapter in the former midfielder’s public life, following his earlier denial of bail.

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