Joey Barton pleads not guilty to assault after incident near golf club

Joey Barton

Joey Barton remains in custody

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PA

Ed Griffiths

By Ed Griffiths


Published: 07/04/2026

- 11:17

Updated: 07/04/2026

- 13:00

Both men have remained in custody since March 10 and were denied bail

Joey Barton has denied attacking a man in an alleged assault at a golf club.

The former footballer was charged with assault occasioning grievous bodily harm with intent.


He pleaded not guilty to the charge today at a hearing at Liverpool Crown Court.

An altercation was claimed to have taken place near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club in Merseyside, and two men were confirmed to be involved, police confirmed.

Kevin Lynch, 51, was taken to the hospital for assessment of injuries to his face and ribs, according to the police statement.

Barton, who was denied bail, has remained in custody since March 10 and denies all wrongdoing.

The former midfielder was known throughout his career for his time at Manchester City and QPR.

Barton has also managed Fleetwood and Bristol Rovers.

Joey Barton

Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty to attacking a man in an alleged assault at a golf club

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GETTY

He has one England cap and also played for Newcastle, Rangers, Burnley and Marseille.

Gary O'Grady, 50, has also been charged and was released on bail.

O'Grady also appeared in court today but did not enter any pleas.