Former Manchester City and Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton will remain in prison for at least six more months after his assault trial was adjourned at Liverpool Crown Court. Judge David Potter postponed the hearing to March 8, 2027, because the case could not proceed as scheduled this week. Barton, who remains on remand, will be held in custody until that date unless he secures bail in the meantime.
Court Appearance on 44th Birthday
Barton appeared in Liverpool Crown Court on his 44th birthday for the hearing, dressed in a navy blue suit, blue shirt, and tie, according to The Sun. As he left the dock, he gave a thumbs-up to a man seated in the public gallery.
The trial was expected to proceed this week but was adjourned by Judge David Potter to March 8, 2027. Barton has pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The charge relates to an alleged incident near the Huyton and Prescot Golf Club in Merseyside on March 8 of this year, Sky News reports. The court previously heard that Kevin Lynch, 51, a former non-league football manager, had been drinking with Barton at the club that evening before the alleged attack took place.
Lynch was taken to hospital with injuries to his face and ribs and was described as being in a serious but stable condition. Doctors have said there is a possibility he may lose sight in one eye. The golf club carries an annual membership fee of £1,440.
Barton's Football Career in Retrospect
Barton began his professional career at Manchester City in 2002, coming through the club's youth academy before making 150 appearances in their first team. He left for Newcastle United in July 2007 in a deal worth £5.8 million.
After his time at Newcastle, Barton joined Queens Park Rangers in August 2011. He spent the 2012-13 season on loan at French club Marseille before signing with Burnley, where he played a key role in the club's promotion to the Premier League.
A two-year contract with Scottish side Rangers was terminated after just eight matches following reported conflicts with team-mate Andy Halliday and manager Mark Warburton. He was also investigated by the Scottish FA over alleged breaches of gambling regulations.
Barton earned a single international cap for England in 2007, despite having publicly criticised fellow players in the national set-up on more than one occasion. After retiring from playing, he moved into management, taking charge of Fleetwood Town and later Bristol Rovers, though neither stint resulted in sustained success.
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