Former professional footballer Joey Barton has been detained in custody after facing assault charges stemming from an incident at a golf club. Barton, who previously played for Manchester City and Newcastle United, was one of two individuals allegedly involved in a confrontation near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club in Merseyside on Sunday night. The authorities confirmed on Tuesday that Barton, 43, and Gary O’Grady, 50, were charged following the alleged assault in Huyton.
Both Barton and O’Grady appeared before Liverpool magistrates and were charged with assault causing serious bodily harm. During the court proceedings, Barton, dressed in glasses, a blue top, and white trousers, only confirmed his personal details.
The court was informed that a group of men, including Barton, were engaged in a heated discussion with Kevin Lynch, 51, at the bar. After separating briefly, Barton returned, and shortly after, a physical altercation ensued outside involving four males. The victim was reportedly punched, kicked, stamped on, and kicked while on the ground, with someone heard shouting for the violence to stop.
Following a brief hearing, District Judge James Hatton granted O’Grady conditional bail, but Barton was denied bail and remanded in custody. Both men are scheduled to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on April 7.
Kevin Lynch, the victim, is a well-known figure in Merseyside, serving as the head teacher at the NexGen Academy in Dovecot, an institution catering to children with additional educational needs. Lynch has a background in non-league football and has managed various non-league teams across the region.
O’Grady was photographed after his arrest, and reports indicate that he is currently in custody. Merseyside Police released a statement confirming the assault and detailing the serious injuries sustained by the victim during the incident at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club.
Law enforcement maintained a significant presence at the golf club as investigations continued, with access to the premises restricted until midday on Tuesday.
