Ex-footballer Barton denies attack at golf club

Ex-Player Barton Refutes Allegations of Attack at Golf Club

Joey Barton, a retired footballer, has rejected claims of assaulting a man at a golf club in Merseyside. The 43-year-old, based in Widnes, is set to stand trial at Liverpool Crown Court for a seven-day proceeding beginning on 1 September. The hearing, conducted via video link from Liverpool Prison, focused on preparing for the trial and securing a plea. Barton is accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Kevin Lynch, a 51-year-old former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy, during an incident at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on 8 March.

Barton’s co-accused, Gary O’Grady, 50, also appeared in court but did not declare a plea. The case against both men alleges that the attack occurred after they consumed alcohol with Lynch at the golf club. Lynch reportedly sustained severe eye injuries during the alleged altercation. This is the second court appearance for Barton, following a prior magistrates’ court session where his bail was denied.

As a midfielder, Barton made a single appearance for England and had a career spanning clubs such as Manchester City, Newcastle United, Queens Park Rangers, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille. He later transitioned into management, leading Fleetwood. The trial will assess whether Barton and O’Grady intended to inflict serious harm on Lynch during the incident.

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