Ex-footballer Barton denies golf club attack

Ex-footballer Barton Denies Golf Club Attack

Former Manchester City Player Faces Trial for GBH Charges

Joey Barton, a retired footballer, has refuted claims of attacking a man during an incident at a Merseyside golf club. The 43-year-old, who was previously denied bail in a magistrates court session, appeared via video link from Liverpool prison at Liverpool Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing. He is among the accused alongside Gary O’Grady, a 50-year-old co-defendant, charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Kevin Lynch, a 51-year-old former non-league football manager. The alleged assault occurred at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on 8 March.

Barton was remanded into custody following the hearing, with his trial set to commence on 1 September. The case involves a seven-day proceeding, and earlier testimony revealed the defendants had consumed alcohol with Lynch at the club before the incident. Lynch, also the founder of NexGen Academy, a special education institution, was reported to have sustained severe eye injuries during the altercation.

“Kevin Lynch suffered significant damage to his eye, according to court accounts,” said the prosecution’s summary during the initial hearing.

O’Grady attended court but did not declare a plea. Barton, who once played for clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille, and later managed Fleetwood, is now facing legal scrutiny. The case highlights his history in football, both as a player and a coach.

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