Ex-footballer Barton denies golf club attack

Ex-footballer Barton denies golf club attack

Joey Barton, a 43-year-old former professional footballer, has refuted allegations of an assault at a golf club in Merseyside. The case involves an incident that occurred on 8 March, where Barton and his co-defendant, Gary O’Grady, are accused of causing serious harm to Kevin Lynch, a 51-year-old former non-league football manager. Lynch, who also founded NexGen Academy, a special education institution, reportedly sustained severe eye injuries during the alleged attack.

Court proceedings and trial details

Barton appeared via video link at Liverpool Crown Court, having been held in custody following an earlier magistrates hearing where bail was denied. The trial, scheduled to commence on 1 September, will span seven days. O’Grady, 50, attended court but has not yet entered a plea. The court heard that the defendants had been consuming alcohol with Lynch prior to the incident.

“Kevin Lynch, a former non-league football manager and founder of NexGen Academy, was said to have suffered serious injuries to his eye during the altercation at the golf club,” the court documents stated.

Barton has played for several clubs, including Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille. Additionally, he served as a manager for Fleetwood Town. The case continues as the legal process unfolds.

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