Former Gas manager Joey Barton could remain in custody until next year after his trial over an alleged attack on a man outside a golf club was delayed
21:10, 02 Sep 2026Updated 21:15, 02 Sep 2026
Joey Barton (Image: West Ham United FC, West Ham United FC via Getty Images)
Former Bristol Rovers manager and England midfielder Joey Barton faces the prospect of remaining behind bars until next year following a postponement of his trial concerning an alleged assault on a man near a golf club.
The 44 year old has pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Kevin Lynch, 51, at Fairway, Huyton, on March 8. While he was scheduled to stand trial this week, Liverpool Crown Court heard on Wednesday that Judge David Potter has pushed back proceedings until 8 March 2027.
The hearing is anticipated to run for a fortnight. Barton has been remanded in custody and is set to return for a bail application hearing on Monday (August 31).
Appearing in court on his birthday, Barton was dressed in a navy blue suit and tie paired with a blue shirt. As he departed the dock, he gave a thumbs up gesture towards a man seated in the public gallery.
The alleged incident is said to have occurred following a drinking session with Lynch at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club. Lynch, a former non-league football manager and founder of special education school NexGen Academy, is reported to have sustained serious injuries to his eye.
The ex-Man City and QPR midfielder from Widnes, Cheshire, earned one England cap during his career and also turned out for Newcastle, Rangers, Burnley and Marseille.
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