Ex-Footballer Joey Barton Pleads Not Guilty to Assault Charge

Joey Barton, a former English football player, has entered a plea of not guilty to a charge of assault outside a golf club. The 43-year-old appeared in court via video link from HMP Liverpool, wearing a grey fleece and glasses, to deny the allegations. He is accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Kevin Lynch, 51, at a golf club in Huyton on March 8. Barton's co-defendant, Gary O'Grady, 50, did not enter a plea during the hearing. The incident allegedly occurred after the defendants had been drinking with the victim at the golf club. Mr Lynch reportedly suffered serious eye injuries in the incident. A trial date has been set for September 1, and the case is expected to last seven days. Barton, who has played for several top-tier clubs including Manchester City and Newcastle, was remanded in custody, while O'Grady was granted conditional bail. Barton currently hosts a podcast called Common Sense With Joey Barton, which explores a range of topics including sports, society, and politics.