Joey Barton Denies Golf Club GBH & Remains in HMP Liverpool

Former Premier League footballer Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent during an incident at a Merseyside golf club.

The 43-year-old appeared at Liverpool Crown Court via video link from HMP Liverpool on Tuesday for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

The charge relates to an alleged assault on 51-year-old Kevin Lynch at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on 8 March.

Mr Lynch, a former non-league football manager and educator, is reported to have suffered a serious eye injury as a result of the incident.

The court was previously informed that the defendants had been socialising with the complainant at the golf club before the alleged attack took place.

Read more: Record Surge in Neurodiversity Tribunal Claims as Cases Double

A co-defendant, 50-year-old Gary O’Grady, appeared in person but was not required to enter a plea during the 15-minute administrative hearing.

Judge Andrew Menary KC fixed a trial date for 1 September, with proceedings expected to last approximately seven days.

Barton, of Widnes, was further remanded in custody following a previous refusal of bail at the magistrates' court stage.

The judge renewed conditional bail for Mr O’Grady, who was present in the courtroom supported by family members.

Read more: VPNews: UK Crime & Court News

The case was adjourned until the trial date, with various legal and administrative deadlines set by the court.

Barton’s playing career saw him represent clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Rangers, as well as earning a single senior cap for the England national team.

He also held managerial positions within the professional game before the current legal proceedings were initiated. 

Read more: Lammy’s prisons in chaos: 12 more freed in error - 2 still at large