Joey Barton Denies Serious Assault Charge at Liverpool Crown Court

Legal Proceedings Begin After Golf Club Altercation

Former professional footballer and manager Joey Barton has officially entered a plea of not guilty regarding an alleged assault at a Merseyside golf club earlier this year.

The 42-year-old, appearing via video link from HMP Liverpool, denied the charge of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent during a plea and trial preparation hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. Barton remains in custody following a previous denial of bail at a magistrates' court appearance.

The Allegations

The charges stem from an incident on March 8 at the Huyton and Prescot Golf Club. Barton, a resident of Widnes, is accused alongside co-defendant Gary O’Grady, 50, of assaulting 51-year-old Kevin Lynch.

Lynch, a well-known figure in the local sports community, is a former non-league football manager and the founder of the NexGen Academy, a special education school. Reports from earlier hearings indicate that:

• The defendants had been drinking with Lynch at the club prior to the alleged incident.
• Lynch reportedly sustained severe injuries, specifically to one of his eyes.

Court Timeline

While Barton entered his "not guilty" plea, his co-defendant Gary O’Grady appeared in court but did not enter a formal plea at this stage.

The court has scheduled a seven-day trial to determine the facts of the case, set to begin on September 1. Barton was remanded back into custody following the short hearing.

Career in Profile

Joey Barton is a prominent, often controversial figure in British football. His playing career included:

• Premier League appearances for Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, and Burnley.
• Stints abroad and in Scotland with Marseille and Rangers.
• One international cap for England.
• A managerial career that included a tenure at Fleetwood Town.

The legal proceedings continue as the court prepares for the September trial date.